Chili con carne by Jamie Oliver

Chili con carne a la Jamie Oliver - An explosion of flavors and tradition

Chili con carne is an iconic dish, steeped in rich culinary traditions, perfectly combining spicy flavor with the tender texture of beef. This recipe will not only warm you on chilly days but is also an excellent source of nutrients, featuring fresh vegetables, beans, and meat. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a party with friends, this dish will surely please everyone. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 60 minutes
- Total time: 80 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 2 medium onions (choose yellow onions for a sweeter taste)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for an extra touch of flavor)
- 2 carrots (optional, but they add a sweet taste)
- 2 red bell peppers (you can also experiment with green or yellow peppers)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for a rich aroma)
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder (adjustable according to your preferences)
- 1 teaspoon of cumin (an essential spice that gives personality to the recipe)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (yes, cinnamon adds a surprising twist)
- Salt and pepper (to enhance the flavors)
- 400 g canned chickpeas (washed and drained)
- 400 g canned beans (choose a mix of white and red beans for variety)
- 400 g chopped tomatoes (you can use fresh tomatoes in season)
- 500 g ground beef (choose quality meat for better taste)
- 1 teaspoon of coriander (optional, for a fresh taste)
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar (to balance the sweetness)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onions, garlic, and carrots. These will form the aromatic base of the dish. The red peppers should be seeded and chopped into large pieces to add texture.

2. Sauté the vegetables:
Place a large pan over medium heat and add the two tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and chopped peppers. Stir well and let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and slightly golden.

3. Add the spices:
Now it's time to add the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices release their aroma.

4. Add the wet ingredients:
At this stage, add the chickpeas, beans, and chopped tomatoes. Then, add the ground meat and balsamic vinegar. Mix everything very well so that the ingredients combine perfectly.

5. Simmer the mixture:
Let the dish come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Adjust the taste:
After an hour, taste the chili con carne and adjust the spices if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even more chili powder for a more intense flavor.

7. Serving:
Chili con carne is delicious served with fluffy basmati rice, but it can also be accompanied by warm tortillas or crunchy nachos. An interesting variation is to top it with a few slices of avocado or a drizzle of sour cream for a creamy contrast.

Helpful tips:
- Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables for the best flavors. If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with a mix of vegetables and mushrooms.
- Freezing: Chili con carne freezes very well. You can prepare it in advance and, after it has cooled, divide it into portions, keeping it in the freezer for days when you don't have time to cook.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or corn, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can try adding a bit of cocoa or dark chocolate for a more complex flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chili con carne has approximately 400-500 calories, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Chickpeas and beans contribute a significant amount of fiber, essential for healthy digestion, while beef provides quality protein.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can use ground chicken, but the taste will be different.
- Is this recipe spicy? You can adjust the heat level according to your preferences by adding or removing chili powder.
- Can I add cheese? Absolutely! Grated cheddar cheese on top is an excellent choice for adding extra flavor.

Chili con carne is more than just a dish - it is a culinary experience that brings friends and family together around a table full of flavors and stories. Put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process!