Chilli Con Carne Recipe
Searching for a scrumptious dinner that is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table? Chilli Con Carne is the answer!
Hailing from Mexico, this robust dish is a mix of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
So, get your ingredients ready and let’s get cooking!
Origins
Surprisingly, chili con carne has its roots in the United States! It was first seen in Texas in the late 1800s, created by Mexican-American cowboys who combined beef with ingredients like chiles, spices, tomatoes, and onions.
As it spread across the states, variations began to appear – Californians added beans, while Texans kept their original version without. Nowadays, chili con carne can be found everywhere, with each country putting its own spin on it.
Whether it’s served as a bowl, on nachos or fries – one fact is certain: chili con carne has become a beloved staple!
Ingredients
For a delicious chilli con carne recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of tomatoes with their juices
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder (or your favorite blend)
- 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon of oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
- Red pepper flakes or dried chipotle peppers (optional)
- Dark-red kidney beans (optional)
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until the beef is browned. Add the remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chilli is thick and the flavors have blended.
If desired, sprinkle in the kidney beans before serving.
Enjoy!
Method
In a large skillet, heat the oil and add the beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until everything is evenly browned, breaking up any clumps of beef with a wooden spoon.
Once browned, stir in chili powder, cumin, and oregano for a minute or two until fragrant.
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 10 minutes or so, until thickened slightly.
Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary before serving your chili con carne.
Garnish it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro – whatever you prefer!
Enjoy!
Spicy Cooking Tips
Are you looking to add a bit of spice to your dishes? Consider adding cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes to your recipes for a flavorful punch. Combining these spices together can turn any dish into something truly delicious – for instance, when making chilli con carne, it will provide an intense flavor and heat that you won’t find elsewhere. To make the most of these flavors, it’s important to use them correctly. Start by adding the smaller amounts of each spice such as the oregano or onion powder first and increase from there if needed. Be sure not to overdo it – too much of one flavor could overpower the rest! Lastly, don’t forget that cooking is all about experimenting – so don’t be afraid to have some fun with it!
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chili Flakes | To taste |
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got a good handle on the basics of adding flavor to your meals, why not take your cooking to the next level?
Experiment with various ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes. Spice things up with chili peppers or fresh chilies for a bit of extra heat. You could also try out different recipes for chili con carne, from milder versions with beans to spicier variations with beef chunks and an array of spices.
And don’t forget to top it off with flavorful garnishes such as chopped onions, fresh coriander leaves or guacamole. The options are endless!
Have fun discovering new flavors and textures while creating scrumptious meals for you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Other Dishes Can I Make With the Same Ingredients Used in a Chilli Con Carne Recipe?
You can make tacos, burritos, or a beef and bean salad with the same ingredients used in a chilli con carne recipe. Spruce it up by adding some cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for an extra burst of flavor!
What Other Types of Ground Meat Can I Use for a Chilli Con Carne Recipe?
You can use any type of ground meat for chilli con carne – from beef to turkey, pork, chicken or even vegetarian options like lentils and mushrooms. Get creative and explore different flavours!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of Chilli Con Carne?
Yes, there are vegetarian options for chilli con carne. You can use beans and vegetables like peppers, onions, corn and tomatoes to make a delicious and nutritious meal.
Are There Any Health Benefits to Eating Chilli Con Carne?
Eating chilli con carne can be a nutritious and healthy option. It’s full of proteins, vitamins and minerals, and is an excellent source of fiber. Plus, it’s low in fat and calories compared to other dishes!
How Long Can I Store Chilli Con Carne Leftovers in the Refrigerator?
You can store chilli con carne leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Enjoy it within that time frame for optimum flavor and safety.
