Chili con CarneBeginner
BeefMain dishMexican

Chili con Carne

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Chili con carne is a classic dish made with ground beef, red kidney beans, and tomatoes, seasoned with garlic and aromatic herbs. The meat is marinated in spices and then slowly simmered with onions, tomatoes, and beans, allowing the flavors to combine into a thick, spicy sauce. It is best served with rice, nachos, or fresh parsley or cilantro, while sour cream or yogurt can be added to mellow the heat.

By Karel R.
Total1 hr 15 mins
Prep30 mins
Cook45 mins
Servings4
DifficultyBeginner

Preparation

6 steps · tap a step to mark it done

  1. Place ground beef in a bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, black pepper and chili powder or finely chopped chili. Mix thoroughly so meat is evenly seasoned. Cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours to let flavors develop.

  2. While meat is marinating heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté gently for about 10 minutes until soft and translucent. Avoid browning too fast so onion becomes sweet and mellow.

  3. Add marinated beef to skillet with onion. Break up meat with wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 20 minutes until meat is browned and nearly fully cooked.

  4. Add diced tomatoes and drained red kidney beans. Sprinkle in salt, sugar and cumin if using. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

  5. Simmer mixture for about 10 minutes without lid so sauce thickens and flavors blend. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more chili for spiciness or a pinch more sugar to balance acidity.

  6. Serve hot Chili con carne tastes great with white rice or tortilla chips. A dollop of sour cream or natural yogurt and fresh parsley or cilantro can be added to garnish. ENJOY!

Cook’s note

Marinating meat in spices before cooking deepens flavor
Sautéing onion slowly enhances sweetness without bitterness
Removing liquid from canned beans prevents chili from becoming too thin
Chili flavors improve after a short rest before serving

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