The BEST Chilli Con Carne

The BEST Chilli Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, this recipe stands out with its rich spices and tender beef. You will find yourself making it time and again, as its robust flavors are sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can quickly get this dish started.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, in tacos, or on its own – it’s delicious any way you serve it!
• Easily Scalable: This recipe can be easily doubled or halved, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents splatters while simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This recipe has been tested over many years to create a rich, spicy and DELICIOUS chilli con carne that you’ll make over and over again! I recommend giving the notes section a quick read before getting started for best results.

• Olive Oil, (as needed)
• 1 large White Onion, (finely diced)
• 1 large Red Pepper (Capsicum/Bell Pepper), (finely diced)
• 3 large cloves of Garlic, (finely diced)
• 2.2lbs / 1kg Ground/Minced Beef ((see notes))
• 2 heaped tbsp Tomato Puree ((Tomato Paste in US))
• 1 cup / 240ml Red apple vinegar, ((see notes))
• 2x 14oz/400g cans Chopped Tomatoes
• 2x 14oz/400g cans Kidney Beans, (drained)
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 Beef Stock Cubes ((Beef Bouillon))
• 2 tbsp EACH: Paprika, Cumin, Chilli Powder ((see notes))
• 1 tsp EACH: Oregano, Ground Coriander, Sugar, Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• Rice
• Grated Cheddar Cheese
• Lime Wedges
• Sour Cream
• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)

How to Make The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Add a splash of oil to a large deep pot over medium heat. Add the onion, red pepper & garlic and fry until they begin to soften and take on a tinge of golden color.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add in the beef, break it up with your wooden spoon and continue to fry over medium heat until browned all over. Stir in 2 heaped tablespoons of tomato paste then deglaze with red apple vinegar. Allow to simmer for a few minutes to let the meat soak in the apple vinegar.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the canned chopped tomatoes. Fill each can halfway up with water, swill, then add that in too. Add in the drained kidney beans, beef stock cubes, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, paprika, chilli powder, oregano, ground coriander, salt & sugar along with black pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Mixture

Give it a good stir as you bring it to a simmer. Once simmering pop on the lid, turn down the heat to low and allow it to bubble away for 1 hour 30 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Take off the lid and allow to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency – about 5–10 minutes depending on how much it has already reduced. Adjust seasoning/spice if necessary.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve over rice topped with cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh coriander sprinkle and a squeeze of lime juice! Enjoy this comforting bowl of The BEST Chilli Con Carne!

How to Serve The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Serving The BEST Chilli Con Carne is just as important as making it. This dish is versatile, and you can elevate your meal with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve the chilli over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.

With Grated Cheese

• Top your serving with grated cheddar cheese. As it melts slightly from the heat, it adds creaminess and richness to each spoonful.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chilli. It balances the heat and adds a creamy texture.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over your chilli for a zesty kick. The acidity brightens up the dish and complements the spices beautifully.

Garnish with Fresh Coriander

• Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander on top for an herbaceous touch. It adds freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Enjoy with Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. It’s perfect for scooping up the chilli or enjoying as a snack on its own.

How to Perfect The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Creating The BEST Chilli Con Carne involves more than just following the recipe. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
• Allow It to Simmer: Letting the chilli simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less spice and add more as needed during cooking. This gives you better control over heat levels.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for additional depth.
• Make It Ahead: Chilli often tastes better the next day when flavors have time to develop further, so consider making it in advance.
• Try Different Proteins: While beef is traditional, using ground turkey or lamb can offer unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with The BEST Chilli Con Carne can enhance your dining experience significantly. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread
   A sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spicy flavours of chilli perfectly while adding a comforting texture.
2. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole made with ripe avocados provides a fresh contrast and balances out the heat of the chilli.
3. Mexican Rice
   Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices offers an excellent base that pairs well with chilli’s bold flavors.
4. Coleslaw
   A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, providing a delightful textural contrast with each bite of chilli.
5. Grilled Vegetables
   Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add smoky flavors that complement the richness of the chilli.
6. Tortillas
   Soft tortillas are perfect for wrapping around servings of chilli or enjoying on their own as a side snack.
7. Baked Potatoes
   A fluffy baked potato topped with chilli makes for a hearty meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness contrasts well with spicy dishes, adding balance and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the perfect chilli con carne can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Browning Process: Not browning your meat properly can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to cook the meat until it’s well-browned before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Failing to taste and adjust spices can result in a dish that’s either too bland or overwhelmingly spicy. Use a little at first and gradually increase to your preference.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned tomatoes or beans can affect the final taste. Choose high-quality products for the best results.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process means flavors won’t meld together. Allow at least 90 minutes for a rich, deep flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower cooking temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The BEST Chilli Con Carne can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing The BEST Chilli Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It freezes well for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating The BEST Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making The BEST Chilli Con Carne, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

What makes The BEST Chilli Con Carne unique?

The blend of spices and quality ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that stands out from other recipes.

Can I customize The BEST Chilli Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice levels, add different beans, or even include vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition.

How do I ensure my chilli isn’t too watery?

Make sure to simmer uncovered towards the end of cooking. This helps thicken the sauce as it reduces.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will yield a lighter version of The BEST Chilli Con Carne without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The BEST Chilli Con Carne is both rich and versatile, perfect for dinner any night of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!