Chili con carne, a hearty and flavorful stew, is a cornerstone of Tex-Mex cuisine. Its rich history blends influences from Spanish settlers and Native American traditions, resulting in a dish as diverse and captivating as its origins. The variations are endless, from fiery hot to subtly spiced, each recipe a testament to the cook's personal touch. Whether you prefer a chunky beef chili or a smoother, more refined version, the satisfying warmth and robust flavor make it a perfect meal for any occasion. It's comfort food elevated, a culinary adventure in a bowl.
This recipe focuses on creating a classic chili con carne, balancing the essential elements of spice, depth of flavor, and tender beef. Forget complicated techniques and long preparation times – this accessible recipe delivers big on taste. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan
- Cast iron pot (recommended)
Ingredients
- Garlic cloves: 3
- Chili pepper: 1
- White onions: 2
- Red onion: 1
- Red bell pepper: 1
- Meat (ground beef recommended)
- Oil
- Meat broth
- Salt
- Pepper
- Raw sugar
- Powdered cumin
- Powdered coriander
- Paprika
- Lime
- Dark chocolate (optional)
- Tomato puree
- Black beans (or other beans)
- Cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sautéing the Meat and Preparing the Vegetables
- Mince three garlic cloves. Remove most of the seeds from a chili pepper.
- Cut two white onions and one red onion.
- Cut the red bell pepper, removing the white parts as much as possible.
- Heat some oil in a saucepan. Add the meat and sauté until well-browned, seasoning with salt. Simmer with a ladle of meat broth for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In the same pot, add more oil and roast the garlic, chili pepper, onions, and bell pepper. Season with salt, pepper, raw sugar, powdered cumin, and coriander to taste. Adjust spices according to your preference for mild or spicy chili.
Step 2. Simmering the Chili
- Increase the heat and add more meat broth. Let the vegetables simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked meat to the pot, mix well, and stir in tomato puree. Add the remaining broth and simmer over medium heat for 60 minutes in a cast iron pot (or any pot, stirring frequently to prevent sticking).
Step 3. Adding Beans and Finishing
- After an hour, add the beans and their liquid. Simmer for another 40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes.
Step 4. Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish with cilantro.
Read more: Grilled Stuffed Squid with Venere Black Rice & Buttered Vegetables
Tips
- A cast iron pot is ideal for long cooking times as it maintains a consistent temperature. If you don't have one, stir often to prevent sticking.
- You can add paprika, lime, or even dark chocolate for extra flavor.
- Chili con carne pairs well with white rice, guacamole, or can be used as a burrito filling.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?
Yes! Ground beef will cook faster, resulting in a chili with a slightly different texture. Just be sure to brown it well before adding the other ingredients.
2. How can I make my chili spicier?
Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few slices of jalapeño pepper. You can also use a spicier type of chili powder, like ancho or chipotle.
So there you have it – a delicious and satisfying chili con carne ready to warm your belly and delight your taste buds. This recipe is a fantastic starting point; feel free to experiment with different beans, spices, and toppings to make it your own. Enjoy the flavorful results of your culinary creation!