Digital Garden

Chili Con Carne

3 min read

A hearty, flavorful, and slightly spicy dish with rich umami depth. This classic chili con carne combines tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of warming spices for the perfect comfort food. Great for meal prep, gatherings, or a cozy night in.

Serves: 4–6 people | Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

Meat and Base:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional for extra heat)
  • 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

Beans and Tomatoes:

  • 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional, adds depth)
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp cocoa powder (for a slight bitter richness)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup dark beer (optional, adds complexity)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (for umami)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables:

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. Brown the Meat:

    • Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

  3. Add Spices:

    • Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, cinnamon, and cloves to the pot. Stir and cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom and release their aroma.

  4. Combine with Liquids and Beans:

    • Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, beans, cocoa powder, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beer (if using). Stir well to combine.

  5. Simmer:

    • Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Cover and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld.

  6. Adjust Seasoning:

    • Taste the chili and add salt, pepper, and cayenne if desired. Squeeze in lime juice for a bit of brightness.

  7. Serve:

    • Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado as desired.

Tips

  • Add More Spice Variations: Try a pinch of allspice, star anise, or even a dash of garam masala for unique layers of flavor.

  • Char the Peppers: Roast or char the bell pepper over a flame before dicing it to add a smoky edge.

  • Mix the Meats: Substitute part of the ground beef with ground pork or chorizo for an extra kick.

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