Chili Con Carne – Recipe and Cooking Instructions

Chili Con Carne – Recipe and Cooking Instructions

Chili Con Carne is a flavorful and hearty dish from traditional Mexican cuisine. It’s often served alongside a plate of rice, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Originally from Mexico, this dish has spread across neighboring countries like the United States and eventually became a global favorite featured in Mexican restaurants around the world.

What makes Chili Con Carne especially popular is its ease of preparation and its rich nutritional profile. It's packed with vital minerals such as iron, which boosts blood strength, and calcium, which supports bone health. Additionally, the dish provides essential vitamins that help strengthen the immune system and may offer protection against various diseases, including cancer.

Because of its health benefits and delicious flavor, many home cooks prepare Chili Con Carne regularly as a main course for lunch.

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Ingredients for 6 Servings:

 

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 500 grams ground beef (or veal)

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (chili flakes)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 can red kidney beans (drained)

• 500 grams crushed tomatoes (or tomato purée)

• 160 ml vegetable broth

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Preparation:

1. Start by cooking the base:
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat, onion, and garlic. Sauté everything together, stirring frequently, until the meat turns brown and fully cooks.

2. Add the vegetables:
   Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir well and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes so the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Spice it up:
   Add the crushed chili, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously for about 7 minutes to ensure the spices blend evenly into the meat and vegetables.

4. Simmer the chili:
   Add the red kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together well and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well-developed. This should take around 20–30 minutes.

5. Final touch:
   Before serving, you can sprinkle a bit more crushed chili if you prefer extra heat. Spoon the chili into serving bowls and serve hot with a side of steamed rice.

Chili Con Carne is a comforting and protein-rich dish perfect for family meals. Its warm spices and hearty ingredients make it a beloved favorite across cultures.