Chili con carne

Chili con carne – a recipe that combines tradition and flavor in a delicious dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Welcome to the captivating world of chili con carne! This recipe is perfect for cool evenings or family meals, being a hearty dish, full of flavor and with an aroma that will entice you to return to it. Chili con carne is a dish that has evolved over time, combining simple and accessible ingredients, but with a remarkable taste impact. Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it on a quiet evening at home, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg ground meat (a mix of beef and pork for a rich texture)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 peppers (one hot and one green or red for a color contrast)
- 1 can of corn (400 g)
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice (450 g)
- 1 can of red beans
- 1 can of white beans (large beans)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons of oil (olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Useful

- A high-sided pan
- A wooden or metal spatula
- A sharp knife for chopping

Steps for preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and peppers. It's important to have everything at hand, as the cooking process goes quickly. These vegetables will add depth and flavor to your dish.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables

Heat the pan over medium heat and add the 3 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent and smells delicious.

Step 3: Adding the meat

Add the ground meat to the pan over the sautéed vegetables. Continue to fry for 5 minutes, stirring to break up the meat so that it browns evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano for a rich taste.

Step 4: Tomatoes and beans

After the meat has browned, add the can of tomatoes. Make sure to stir well to combine the flavors. Drain the beans and rinse them under cold water. Add the red and white beans to the pan, as well as the corn, and mix well.

Step 5: Boiling

Cover the pan and let everything simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes. This step is essential, as it allows the flavors to blend and intensify. Check the consistency from time to time and add salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.

Serving

Chili con carne is served hot, ideally alongside warm tortilla wraps. You can add a bit of yogurt or sour cream on top to balance the spiciness, as well as a few chili flakes for those who want an extra kick. A fresh salad or a side of rice can perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and variations

- Meat variations: You can experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Additional vegetables: Add carrots or zucchini for a richer vegetable variant.
- Spices: Try adding cumin or paprika for an even more complex flavor.
- Beans: If you don't like red or white beans, you can use just one type, such as black beans.

Nutritional benefits

This chili con carne recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Ground meat provides essential proteins, while beans are a rich source of fiber and nutrients. Tomatoes add antioxidants, and vegetables offer vitamins and minerals. A serving of chili con carne has approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of meat and beans used.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare chili con carne in advance?
Absolutely! Chili con carne keeps excellently in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day, having even more flavor due to the flavors having time to blend.

What drinks pair well with chili con carne?
A light beer or a refreshing lemonade is the perfect choice. Also, a dry red wine can complement the intense flavors of the dish.

I hope this chili con carne recipe has inspired you and made you want to try it soon! It will surely bring smiles and satisfaction to your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!