Chili Con Carne; The Mexican Way. Get the Recipe

What is Chili Con Carne,

 Chili con carne, often simply called "chili," is a spicy stew that originated in Mexican and Texan cuisine. The name "chili con carne" translates from Spanish as "chili with meat." This dish typically consists of chili peppers, meat (usually beef), tomatoes, and a variety of spices. Common additions include beans, onions, and garlic, though the inclusion of beans is a topic of debate among enthusiasts. Regional variations exist; for example, traditional Texas chili emphasizes meat and chili peppers, often excluding beans and tomatoes. 

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chili con Carne:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 ½ tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup beef broth or water

1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, chopped onions, etc.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Cook onion & garlic: Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

4. Add bell peppers: Stir in the red and green bell peppers and cook for 5 more minutes until softened.

5. Spices & tomato: Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Then, add the tomato paste and stir for another minute.

6. Simmer: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If it’s too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar.

8. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your hearty Chili con Carne!