Hearty Chili Con Carne: A Spicy Delight

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
• Sour cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients and have them measured, chopped, and ready to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 4: Add the Spices
Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Mix in the canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, and beef broth.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Check Consistency and Seasoning
As the chili simmers, it will start to thicken. If it gets too thick, you can add more beef broth as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once the chili has reached your preferred consistency, serve it hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream (if using), and garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Equipment and Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Cooking Process

The process of making Hearty Chili Con Carne involves browning the beef, sautéing vegetables, adding spices for depth of flavor, and simmering the mixture with tomatoes and beans to meld the flavors together into a rich, satisfying chili.

Tips and Tricks

For an even heartier chili, consider adding diced celery or carrots with the bell peppers.
To enhance the smoky flavor, you can add a bit of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
For a chunkier chili, add additional vegetables or use different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 9g

Introduction

Indulge in a bowl of Hearty Chili Con Carne, a spicy delight that’s perfect for warming you up on chilly evenings. This classic dish brims with a bevy of robust flavors, from the savory ground beef to the rich combination of tomatoes and spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or you need a versatile meal for your next get-together, this chili is sure to satisfy.