How to Make Delicious Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a classic comfort dish, perfect for cold nights or for sharing with friends and family!

This hearty dish is a popular Tex-Mex dish that is made up of chili peppers, beef and various spices.

Below, we will show you how to prepare a delicious chili con carne recipe that is easy to follow and sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients 

  • 2 pounds of ground beef
  • 2 cans of kidney beans
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 can of tomato sauce
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.

Step 3

Add the ground beef to the pot, and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot, and stir to combine.

Step 5

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot, and stir to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 30 minutes, or until the flavors are well combined.

Step 7

Add the kidney beans to the pot, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the beans are heated through.

Step 8

Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

The Origin of Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne has a rich history that dates back to the American Southwest in the 1800s. It’s believed that the dish originated in San Antonio, Texas, where it was originally known as “chili con carne stew”. The dish was popularized by a group of women known as the “chili queens” who sold the dish in public plazas and markets.

Over time, chili con carne became a popular dish among cowboys, miners, and railroad workers who would cook it in large pots over an open fire. The dish eventually spread across the United States and became a staple in many households.

Tips for Making an Amazing Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking to make the perfect chili con carne, here are some tips to help you along the way:

Use high-quality meat

When making chili con carne, it’s important to use high-quality meat such as ground beef or beef chuck. Look for meat that is well-marbled and has a rich, beefy flavor.

Build layers of flavor: 

To make a truly delicious chili con carne, it’s important to build layers of flavor. This means adding ingredients such as onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and other spices to create a complex and flavorful dish.

Don’t skimp on the cooking time: 

Chili con carne is a dish that benefits from a long cooking time. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and flavorful.

Use a variety of beans

While chili con carne is typically made with kidney beans, you can also use other types of beans such as black beans or pinto beans. Using a variety of beans can add texture and depth to your chili.

Add a touch of sweetness:

Many people enjoy adding a touch of sweetness to their chili con carne by adding ingredients such as brown sugar or chocolate. This can help balance out the spiciness ofthe dish andadd a delicious depth of flavor.

Serving Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne is a hearty dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for serving chili con carne:

On its own: Chili con carne can be served on its own as a main course. Simply ladle it into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings.

With rice: Rice is a common side dish for chili con carne. Try serving it with some delicious coconut milk rice for a tasty and unique twist on this classic dish.

With cornbread: Cornbread is a classic accompaniment to chili con carne. You can serve it on the side or crumble it into the chili for a delicious and hearty meal.

With tortilla chips: Tortilla chips are a great way to add some crunch to your chili con carne. Serve them on the side or crush them up and sprinkle them on top of the chili.

With toppings: Chili con carne is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings. Some popular options include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and jalapenos.

Other Interesting Facts About Chili Con Carne

  • In some parts of the United States, chili con carne is traditionally served with Fritos corn chips as a topping.
  • While chili con carne is a delicious dish on its own, it can also be used as a topping for hot dogs or baked potatoes.
  • Some people like to add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to their chili con carne for added flavor.
  • If you’re looking to make a healthier version of chili con carne, you can use lean ground beef or turkey and add plenty of vegetables such as bell peppers and onions.
  • Don’t forget to garnish your chili con carne with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Overall, making the perfect chili con carne requires a little bit of time, effort, and patience. But with these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

And if you’re looking for a delicious side dish to serve with your chili con carne, be sure to check out this recipe for coconut milk rice at: Coconut milk rice