Flavorful Chili Con Carne: A Hearty Comfort Food

Chili Con CarnePhoto byRecipe Formula

Chili con carne, often simply called chili, is a robust and flavorful dish that has become a staple in many households.

Get the Recipe Details: Chili Con Carne Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook the spices with the meat and vegetables for 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. Pour in the beef broth or water, and add the Worcestershire sauce and sugar if using. Mix everything until well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld, so feel free to let it cook for up to 1-2 hours if time allows.
6. Serve: Once the chili has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions if desired. Pair it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chili con carne is a rich, hearty dish that packs a punch of flavor with every bite. This classic recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or for making ahead and enjoying as leftovers. With its warm, spicy notes and filling ingredients, chili con carne is the ultimate comfort food that will keep you coming back for more. Whether served on its own or with your favorite sides, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.