Chili con carne

Chili con carne - An explosion of flavors and warmth in every spoonful

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Chili con carne is a savory dish, full of personality, that has won the hearts of many over time. Its origins are often discussed, but one thing is certain: it is a meal that brings people together, turning a simple dinner into a memorable experience. The deep and enticing flavors of meat, spices, and vegetables blend perfectly, offering a dish that is both comforting and spicy.

Ingredients:

- 700 g ground beef
- 250 g kidney beans (canned or boiled)
- 1 chili pepper (or to taste)
- 2 large onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika
- 200 g sour cream (for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram
- 200 ml quality tomato juice
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- A pinch of cumin
- 2 bell peppers
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Extra:
- 250 g long-grain rice
- 150 g nachos
- 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro

Preparing the ingredients:

Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic, and cutting the chili pepper and bell peppers into larger cubes. This careful preparation is essential to ensure that all flavors combine perfectly during cooking. If you want to control the spice level, you can adjust the amount of chili pepper to your liking.

Steps for preparation:

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet or deep pot, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. You will notice how the aroma fills the kitchen.

2. Add the meat: Place the ground beef in the skillet and brown it well, stirring frequently to break it apart. This step will add depth to the dish. Cook until the meat changes color.

3. Season: Add sweet paprika, hot paprika, marjoram, oregano, and cumin. Mix everything well so that the spices integrate with the meat and vegetables. Now is the time to add the chopped chili pepper.

4. Add the tomato juice: Pour the tomato juice into the mixture and add the drained and rinsed kidney beans. This will add a creamy and rich texture to the chili. Mix everything, add the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper.

5. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer on low heat, covered, for about 40-50 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to develop and blend harmoniously. You can stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Prepare the rice: While the chili is simmering, you can prepare the long-grain rice according to the package instructions. This will serve as a perfect base for the spicy chili.

7. Serving: Once the chili is ready, serve it hot, with a generous dollop of sour cream on top. You can also add nachos on the side for a crunchy contrast. Don't forget the fresh cilantro, which will add a note of freshness!

Helpful tip: If you don't like beef, you can substitute it with ground chicken or turkey, and for a vegetarian option, use chopped mushrooms or mixed vegetables.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of beans, such as white or black beans. Additionally, adding corn or carrots can provide an interesting texture and a sweet note.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I keep the chili? Yes, chili con carne keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

- What other recipes can it be combined with? This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or creamy guacamole. Additionally, a glass of cold beer or mint lemonade are ideal accompaniments.

Nutritional benefits: Chili con carne is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and beans, and the spices add not only flavor but also antioxidants. A serving of chili provides a good amount of fiber, aiding digestion.

In the end, don't forget to enjoy every spoonful! Chili con carne is more than just a simple dish; it is an invitation to conviviality and savoring moments spent with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for an ordinary dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely bring warmth and joy to everyone's hearts. Enjoy your meal!