Chilli con Carne is a spicy minced beef stew made with red kidney beans, onions and garlic.
Chilli con Carne is traditionally served with rice and sour cream. You can make Chilli con Carne as Mild or as Hot as you like, in this recipe for Chilli we are not going to make the dish too hot, so this is a Mild to Warm Chilli that the whole family will enjoy.
Serve this with some plain white rice and a generous spoon of Soured Cream.
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Historys of Chilli con Carne
Chili con carne, boasts a rich and diverse history that reflects the cultural melting pot of the American Southwest. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century, particularly in Texas, where it emerged as a blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American culinary traditions.
The name itself translates to "chili with meat," and the dish typically features a combination of ground beef, chili peppers, tomatoes, and various spices, though recipes can vary widely. The use of chili peppers is particularly significant, as they were introduced to the region by indigenous peoples and became a staple in local cuisine.
Over the years, chili con carne evolved, with different regions adding their unique twists; for instance, some versions incorporate beans, while others strictly adhere to the meat-only tradition. The dish gained popularity during the Great Depression, as it was an affordable and filling meal, and it has since become a beloved staple at cook-offs and gatherings, celebrated for its bold flavors and comforting warmth.
Today, chili con carne continues to inspire chefs and home cooks alike, serving as a canvas for creativity while honoring its storied past.
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Serves: Two
Medium
Cook in: 40 min
Prep: 20 min
What equipment do you need ?
Saucepan
Mixing Bowl
Food Processor
Wooden Spoon
Kitchen Scales
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Wooden Spoon
Traditional Beech Wooden Spoon 8” 10” 12” 14”
£2.54 (Est.
A mid range Kenwood Food Processor.
A Kenwood Food Processor is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to simplify food preparation tasks.
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Plastic Mixing Bowl
3L Mixing Bowl For Baking Cooking Serving Kitchen Non Slip Base Dishwasher Safe
£6.45 (Est.)
Saucepan Set
3-Piece Stainless Steel Saucepan Set with Glass Lids – 16cm / 18cm / 20cm
Chilli con carne or as it is sometimes spelled Chili con carne is often mistaken as the national dish of Mexico as the dish originated in northern Mexico or southern Texas, but it is not the National dish of Mexico, the is national dish of Mexico is Mole.
We have a Tex-Mex version of this chilli that tastes great. In this recipe for Chilli con carne the chilli is not very spicy, just a little kick that most people can cope with. If you want it hot try 2 tsp of Hot Chilli Powder.
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Variations of Chilli con Carne
Traditional recipes often feature ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, but modern interpretations may include alternative proteins such as turkey or plant-based options for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Additionally, the choice of beans can vary, with some recipes opting for kidney beans while others may use black beans or even lentils.
The level of heat can also be adjusted according to personal preference, ranging from mild to extremely spicy, by varying the types and amounts of chilli used.
In this recipe I have made a mild Chilli using just 1tsp of hot chilli powder.
Furthermore, regional influences can introduce ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or even chocolate, enhancing the flavour further.
350 g of Minced Beef
1 large brown Onion
1 tsp Lazy Garlic
1 Tin Chopped Tomatoes
1/2 Tin Red Kidney Beans
1 Tsp Hot Chilli Powder
2 Tsp smoked Paprika
2 Beef Stock Cube
60 ml or 4 tbs of Tomato Ketchup
30 ml or 2 tbs Sweet chilli Sauce
45 ml Tomato Paste
20 g Flour
30 ml Olive oil
Dice up your Onion and mix it together with the garlic.
Fry off the diced Onions & Garlic in the olive oil in a medium saucepan for a few minutes.
In a small bowl mix in the Hot chilli powder , Paprika , Stock cube
Add the tin of chopped tomatoes to a food processor and blend for 30 seconds so that you get a thick tomato sauce.
Run the Red kidney beans under cold water to rinse off.
When the onions are soft add the minced beef and mix it into the onions well, cook until brown.
The mince is cooked when it is a light brown colour.
Tip in the chilli powder mix, made with paprika, chilli powder and beef stock cubes
Mix with a wooden spoon and cook for a few minutes
At this stage you can add the flour to thicken the sauce.
Add the tomato sauce to the pan and cook until hot.
Mix in the sweet chilli sauce, ketchup & tomato paste.
Cover and cook for 10 minutes , until the meat is cooked.
Drain off the Kidney beans and add them to the chilli.
Cook for a further 10 min.
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Chefs Tips for making Chilli con Carne
Is Chilli con Carne the national dish of Mexico ?
Chilli con Carne is often mistakenly regarded as the national dish of Mexico; however, it actually has its roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, which blends Mexican and American culinary traditions.
Is Chilli con Carne Hot ?
Chili con carne is typically known for its spicy flavour, which can vary significantly depending on the recipe and the types of chili peppers used. This Chilli is a medium heat Chilli, most people can handle this.
How long will Chilli con Carne keep ?
Chili con carne can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about three to four days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, freezing is an excellent option, allowing it to remain safe for consumption for up to six months.
What is the difference between Chilli con Carne and other chili dishes?
Chili con carne distinguishes itself from other chili dishes primarily through its inclusion of meat, typically ground beef, which is a defining characteristic of this particular recipe.
Cuisine:Aztec ,Mexican
