Craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that'll make your taste buds dance? Look no further than this ultimate Chili Con Carne recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into a flavor explosion! Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or looking for the perfect comfort food, this Tex-Mex classic is about to become your new go-to dish that will have everyone begging for seconds. Get ready to discover the secret to making the most mouth-watering chili that'll become a legend in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the browned beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle chili powder over the meat mixture and stir thoroughly to coat the beef and distribute the spice evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine with the meat and spices.
- Add the drained kidney beans to the pot and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the chili for approximately 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The chili should have a rich, deep flavor with tender meat and beans.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips
- Cooking the perfect Chili Con Carne is an art, and here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:
- Brown the meat thoroughly: Ensure your ground beef is well-browned to develop deep, rich flavors. Don't rush this step!
- Layer your spices: Consider toasting your chili powder briefly before adding other ingredients to enhance its flavor profile.
- Low and slow is the key: Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and makes the meat incredibly tender.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and recently purchased spices will make a significant difference in taste.
- Let it rest: Allow the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking to let the flavors fully develop.
- Optional additions: Experiment with adding a splash of beer or a square of dark chocolate for extra depth of flavor.
- Make ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance.Pro tip: Serve with warm cornbread or over rice for a complete and satisfying meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 224kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 40mg
