Chili con carne

Chili con carne (literally “chili with meat”) is a hearty, spicy stew made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of spices. It’s a comfort food classic in both Mexican-American (Tex-Mex) and Southwestern U.S. cuisine.

Here’s a classic, rich, and satisfying recipe:

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🍲 Chili con Carne (Classic Recipe)

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or chuck, coarsely chopped)

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth (or water)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1–2 tsp chili powder (adjust to heat preference)

• ½ tsp oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional:

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp cayenne (for extra heat)

  • 1 small bell pepper or jalapeño, diced

  • 1 square of dark chocolate (adds depth!)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Cook the aromatics
   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft (5–7 min). Add garlic and stir for 1 minute.

2. Brown the beef
   Add ground beef. Cook until fully browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Add spices and tomato paste
   Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.

4. Add tomatoes and broth
   Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

5. Add beans and simmer
   Add kidney beans and stir well. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors develop.

6. Taste and adjust
   Add salt, pepper, and more chili if desired. Stir in chocolate if using (adds richness and depth).

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🧀 Serve With:

• Warm cornbread or rice

• Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions

• Tortilla chips or crusty bread

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🔄 Variations:

• No beans: Traditional Texas-style chili uses only meat and no beans.

• Chunky chili: Use beef chuck cut into small cubes instead of ground beef.

• Vegetarian: Use lentils or extra beans + sweet potatoes or mushrooms instead of meat.

• Slow cooker/Instant Pot: Want those versions? I can share adjusted directions.

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Would you like a spicy, smoky, or sweet-and-savory twist on this chili?