Classic Chilli Con Carne

Introduction

Chilli Con Carne is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time, offering a hearty, warming dish bursting with flavor. The recipe from Recipes by Lucy captures everything we love about this savory comfort food. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner, hosting a get-together, or craving a wholesome bite, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Let’s dive into the details of what makes Lucy’s Chilli Con Carne a definitive go-to meal.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Ground beef – 500g

Olive oil – 1 tablespoon

Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped

Garlic cloves – 2, minced

Red bell pepper – 1, diced

Chopped tomatoes – 400g canned variety

Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons

Kidney beans – 400g, drained and rinsed

Chili powder – 2 teaspoons

Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon

Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon

Salt – To taste

Black pepper – To taste

Water or beef stock – 250ml

Prep Time

Lucy keeps the preparation process straightforward and approachable for all skill levels. You’ll need about 15 minutes to handle the preliminary tasks, such as chopping veggies and gathering the necessary spices. This ensures that you’re ready to jump quickly into the cooking stage without hassle or stress.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

With a slow-simmering approach that locks in all the rich flavors, the cook time for this dish is around 45 minutes. This brings the total time for the recipe to just 1 hour, making it a quick yet delicious dinner option. The recipe yields approximately 4 servings, but it can easily be doubled to serve more hungry guests or to store leftovers for the next day. Chilli Con Carne also gets better with time, so don’t hesitate to make extra for a robust meal later.

Lucy’s signature take on Chilli Con Carne will effortlessly earn a spot in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy every bite as it warms both your belly and your heart!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

– Chop the onions, garlic, and red chilies finely.
– Dice the red bell peppers into small cubes.
– Drain and rinse the canned red kidney beans.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

– Place a large pot or deep-sided skillet over medium heat.
– Add a drizzle of cooking oil and wait until it heats up.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

– Add the chopped onions, garlic, and red chilies to the pot.
– Cook until softened, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Meat

– Add the ground beef to the skillet with the cooked aromatics.
– Stir and break the meat into small pieces as it browns evenly.
– Allow it to cook until there is no pink left and the meat is fully browned.

Step 5: Add the Spices

– Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and ground coriander over the mixture.
– Stir well so the spices coat the meat and aromatics evenly, releasing the spices’ aroma.

Step 6: Stir in the Tomatoes

– Pour the canned chopped tomatoes into the pot.
– Stir well to combine with the meat and spices.

Step 7: Add the Beans and Peppers

– Add the drained kidney beans and diced red peppers into the pot.
– Stir to evenly distribute the beans and peppers.

Step 8: Simmer

– Reduce the heat to low.
– Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 9: Final Taste Check

– Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
– If you desire, add a pinch more chili powder for additional heat.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

– Serve hot with your preferred accompaniments, such as rice, tortilla chips, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Notes

Adjusting Spice Levels

– If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of red chilies and chili powder used.

Alternative Proteins

– You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if desired.

Storage and Leftovers

– Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing Instructions

– This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
– Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Optional Additions

– Consider adding a handful of corn for extra sweetness or chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness when serving.
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Cook Techniques

Browning the Meat

This technique involves cooking the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is fully browned. Doing this step ensures the meat develops a good flavor base and helps seal in its natural juices.

Sautéing Aromatics

Sautéing onions and garlic until softened enhances their natural sweetness, adds depth to the dish, and creates a more flavorful base before the other ingredients are combined.

Simmering for Depth

Allowing the chili to simmer on low heat for an extended period helps the spices and flavors meld together properly, resulting in a hearty and rich dish.

FAQ

How spicy is this chili con carne?

The spice level can be easily adjusted by adding more or less chili powder and optional ingredients like fresh chilies or cayenne pepper. This recipe can cater to both mild and spicy preferences.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a different take on the dish. Ensure similar preparation techniques are applied to guarantee good flavor.

How do I thicken the chili?

If you prefer thicker chili, you can let it cook uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a slurry made of cornstarch and water.

Is it okay to make this dish ahead?

Absolutely. In fact, chili tastes even better the next day, as the extra time allows the flavors to deepen and develop further.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it and reheat as needed.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, you can include additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to make the dish more nutritious and add more texture.

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Conclusion

A hearty and flavorful classic, Chilli Con Carne stands as a warming dish that brings people together. Its richness and depth of flavor make it a meal worth savoring. Perfectly suited for any occasion, it’s a dish that combines comfort with spice, making it a true favorite in every household. Serve it with your favorite sides to create a meal everyone will enjoy again and again.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Chilli

Swap out the meat for hearty lentils, black beans, and vegetables to create a rich, plant-based version of this classic dish.

Chilli Nachos

Layer your Chilli Con Carne over a pile of crispy tortilla chips, topped with melted cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños for an indulgent snack or party favorite.

Chilli Stuffed Peppers

Use your chili to stuff hollowed-out bell peppers, bake them in the oven, and enjoy a flavorful twist on the classic stuffed peppers recipe.

Chilli Tacos

Serve your Chilli Con Carne in taco shells with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado for the perfect handheld meal.

Chilli Cheese Fries

Pour your chili over crispy french fries and top with cheddar cheese for a decadent and satisfying snack or meal.

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