Description
A hearty and flavorful Chili Con Carne recipe featuring ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, simmered to perfection for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown meat: Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Add spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 2 more minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the chili mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. It pairs wonderfully with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to reduce fat content.
- For spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Use low-sodium broth and beans to control salt levels.
- Simmering longer can deepen the flavor but avoid overcooking beans to prevent mushiness.
- Optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado complement the dish well.
