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Hearty Chili Con Carne Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 13 reviews
  • Author: Lora
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This hearty Chili Con Carne recipe offers a flavorful and spicy blend of lean ground beef, kidney beans, and aromatic spices simmered to perfection. Slow-cooked in a Dutch oven, the chili develops a rich, thick texture and bold flavor, making it a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gathering with friends. Topped with fresh cilantro, this classic dish is satisfying and easy to make from scratch.


Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
  • 2 medium jalapeños, stem, veins, and seeds removed, diced
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
  • 4 medium cloves garlic, diced

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 Tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 Tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Beef Base (or other beef bouillon of choice)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Seasoning & Garnish

  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, diced for topping


Instructions

  1. Heat and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large Dutch oven on the stove over medium heat. Once hot, add olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2 minutes. Then add diced jalapeños and sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until onions are turning translucent. Stir in salt and add garlic; sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: Add lean ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, ensuring there is no visible pink remaining, approximately 8 minutes.
  3. Add and Toast Spices: Stir in ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the meat, then sauté for 2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
  4. Add Tomato and Liquids: Mix in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, water, and the roasted beef bouillon base. Add kidney beans and stir to combine thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Let the chili cook uncovered for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  6. Season and Garnish: Adjust seasoning with ground black pepper and additional salt if needed. Serve the chili hot, topped with freshly diced cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, retain the jalapeño seeds or add extra cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Better Than Bouillon Roasted Beef Base adds depth but can be substituted with beef broth or stock.
  • Leftover chili tastes even better the next day and freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices for extra richness.