Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Super simple chili con carne
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450g) of lean minced beef
- 2 cans of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15.5 ounces or 439g each can)
- 2 cans of chopped tomatoes (14.5 ounces or 411g each can)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat (approximately 180°C or 350°F).
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté them together until they become soft and slightly translucent. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot. Continue to sauté everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes. The aromatics will start to release their beautiful fragrances.
- Next, add the lean minced beef to the pot. Cook and stir it until it is fully browned. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and some salt and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together so the spices combine with the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and kidney beans. Stir all the ingredients together so they’re well combined.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low (approximately 120°C or 250°F). Let everything simmer together for at least 1 hour. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the bottom from burning.
- After an hour, remove the lid and give your chili a taste. Adjust the seasoning if it’s needed. If you want your chili to be thicker, you can let it continue to simmer uncovered for an additional 15 to 30 minutes.
- Now your Super Simple Chili Con Carne is ready to be served! It’s best served hot, and you can add some optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions if you desire.
There you have it. A simple, delicious, and budget-friendly Chili Con Carne recipe that’s sure to impress your dinner guests. Enjoy!
A healthier twist to chili con carne
Making a healthier version of chili con carne can be as simple as substituting some ingredients. Instead of using beef, try lean ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
You can also load up on more fiber-rich vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and peas.
For a kick of extra nutrients, consider swapping normal beans for black beans, which are loaded with antioxidants and fiber.
Storing and maintaining chili con carne
Properly stored, chili con carne can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.
If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving suggestions for chili con carne
Chili con carne can be served with a myriad of sides. For a hearty meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread or over rice. For a lighter, low-carb option, try it on a bed of salad greens.
Cornbread or nachos also provide a delightful crunch contrast.
As for drinks, a fruity sangria pairs beautifully with the spicy, hearty chili, while for a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing iced tea.
Make-ahead tips for chili con carne
If you’re short on time, opt for a slow cooker version of chili con carne. You can easily prep all the ingredients the night before and toss them in the slow cooker in the morning before heading out.
This allows the chili to be slowly cooked over 6-8 hours, ready to be consumed by the time you get home!
Making use of leftover chili con carne
In case you’re left with some chili con carne, there are many creative ways to repurpose it. Use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, top it over baked potatoes or spread it on a pizza base for a spicy, hearty treat.
You can also stir it into scrambled eggs for a wholesome breakfast dish. Just remember to reheat the chili thoroughly before using it in these recipes.
