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A steaming bowl of traditional chili con carne, garnished with fresh cilantro

Best way to grow the perfect Chili con Carne

This recipe guides you through creating a rich and flavorful chili con carne, a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. It combines tender beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a truly satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast cut into ½-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 yellow onions chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 28 oz diced tomatoes undrained
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 15 oz kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 15 oz black beans rinsed and drained
Spices
  • 3 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until a nice crust forms, then remove and set aside.
  3. Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
  6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 90 minutes, or until the beef is very tender.
  7. Stir in the rinsed and drained kidney beans and black beans. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For an even deeper flavor, let the chili cool and refrigerate overnight; reheat gently. You can also add a pinch of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate to enhance the richness of the chili. Customize with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or jalapeños.