The BEST Chilli Con Carne

The BEST Chilli Con Carne is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe promises a delicious combination of spices and ingredients that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this chilli con carne is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a deep, savory taste that’s perfect for spice lovers.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple instructions make this dish accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, with bread, or even on its own as a filling meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made in large quantities and frozen for later use.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves 6, making it great for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pot: Essential for simmering the chilli without spilling; its size allows for even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware; it helps break up the meat easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts, which is crucial for achieving the best flavor.

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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.

For the Base

• 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)

For the Meat & Sauce

• 2.2lbs / 1kg Ground/Minced Beef
• 2 heaped tbsp Tomato Puree
• 1 cup / 240ml Red apple vinegar
• 2x 14oz/400g cans Chopped Tomatoes
• 2x 14oz/400g cans Kidney Beans, (drained)
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 Beef Stock Cubes

For Seasoning

• 2 tbsp EACH: Paprika, Cumin, Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp EACH: Oregano, Ground Coriander, Sugar, Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

For Serving

• Rice
• Grated Cheddar Cheese
• Lime Wedges
• Sour Cream
• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)

How to Make The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté the 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 tbsp tomato paste then deglaze with red apple vinegar. Allow to simmer for a few minutes to allow the meat to 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, 2 beef stock cubes, 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp cumin, paprika, chilli powder, 1 tsp oregano, ground coriander, salt & sugar and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Step 4: Simmer

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

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Take off the lid and allow to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency – about 5-10 minutes or so. Adjust seasoning/spice with chilli powder, salt, sugar and black pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve over rice with cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime juice!

How to Serve The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Serving chilli con carne is all about enhancing the rich flavors of the dish with complementary sides and toppings. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Rice

• Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the spicy sauce. Brown or white rice works well, depending on your preference.

Grated Cheese

• Top with a generous amount of grated cheese for a creamy texture. Cheddar or a blend of cheeses adds great flavor.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and adds a cool, creamy touch. It’s a perfect contrast to the spices in the chilli.

Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over your chilli for a burst of acidity that brightens up the flavors. This adds an extra layer of freshness.

Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)

• Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander on top for an aromatic finish. Its herbal notes enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Cornbread

• Serve with warm cornbread for a comforting side that complements the spiciness. It’s perfect for sopping up leftover sauce.

How to Perfect The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Perfecting chilli con carne is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips to help you achieve this goal.

• Use quality meat: Choose lean ground beef for better flavor and less grease. Fresh meat enhances the overall taste and texture.

• Sauté vegetables well: Take time to fry onions, peppers, and garlic until they soften and caramelize. This step builds a flavorful base.

• Simmer longer: Allowing your chilli to simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Patience pays off!

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adding more salt, sugar, or chili powder can elevate your dish according to your personal preference.

• Add beans last: To avoid mushy beans, add them halfway through cooking. This keeps their texture intact while they absorb some flavors.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak spice levels based on your taste. Add more paprika or cumin for richness or heat as desired.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Chilli Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with chilli con carne can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread
   A sweet and savory addition that perfectly complements the spicy flavours of the chilli.

2. Tortilla Chips
   Crunchy tortilla chips provide a nice texture contrast and are great for dipping into your chilli.

3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances spice wonderfully; it’s also great on its own with chips!

4. Coleslaw
   A fresh coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chilli nicely.

5. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for spooning over hearty chilli con carne.

6. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots add color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

7. Mexican Rice
   Flavored rice with tomatoes and spices pairs beautifully with chilli while adding extra filling elements to your meal.

8. Pickled Jalapeños
   For those who enjoy extra heat, pickled jalapeños offer a tangy kick that heightens every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The BEST Chilli Con Carne can be a breeze, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-stellar results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat properly can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure the beef is browned evenly for the best taste.

• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Low-quality tomatoes can affect the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality chopped tomatoes for richer taste and texture.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Many forget to adjust seasonings throughout cooking. Taste your dish at different stages and tweak spices as needed.

• Rushing simmer time: Cutting down on simmer time may leave flavors underdeveloped. Allow your chilli to simmer for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes for maximum depth.

• Overcooking or undercooking beans: Kidney beans need to be drained and rinsed properly before adding them in. Overcooked beans can turn mushy, while undercooked beans can be hard.

• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping toppings like cheese, sour cream, or lime diminishes the dish’s appeal. These garnishes add flavor and visual interest.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The BEST Chilli Con Carne will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The BEST Chilli Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The BEST Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The BEST Chilli Con Carne that you might find helpful:

Can I use turkey instead of beef in The BEST Chilli Con Carne?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option while still enjoying fantastic flavors.

What type of beans should I use in my chilli con carne?

Kidney beans work best due to their texture and ability to absorb flavors. You can also try black beans or pinto beans if you prefer.

How can I make The BEST Chilli Con Carne spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chilli powder or add fresh chopped chillies during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock cubes.

How do I thicken The BEST Chilli Con Carne?

If you find your chilli too thin, simply let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Chilli Con Carne is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor! This recipe is versatile enough for customization—add more vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this dish becomes a favorite in your kitchen!