Introduction
Chili con Carne, often simply referred to as "chili," is a beloved dish originating from the southwestern United States, with roots in Mexican cuisine. It features a robust combination of ground meat, usually beef, combined with beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. The dish is known for its bold flavors and can be adjusted to suit various heat preferences. Chili con Carne is often served with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, making it a filling and comforting meal that is perfect for gatherings and cold weather.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (or black beans), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional: 1 cup beef or chicken broth (for a thinner chili)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
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Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or turkey). Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
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Add the Ingredients:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper. If you prefer a thinner chili, add the broth at this stage.
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Simmer the Chili:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
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Taste and Adjust:
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer more heat, add additional cayenne or chili powder.
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Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side.
Health Tips
- Chili con Carne can be high in calories and sodium, especially when using processed ingredients. To make it healthier, use lean ground meat, low-sodium beans and broth, and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Chili is often enjoyed with cornbread or over rice. It also pairs well with a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Storage: Chili con Carne can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the chili by adding other ingredients such as corn, chopped peppers, or different types of beans.
