Chili con Carne is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines ground meat, vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. This recipe adds a special twist with cocoa powder, which enhances the depth of flavor and makes this chili stand out. Whether you’re looking to spice up a chilly evening or preparing for a weekend gathering, this chili is a fantastic option. It’s easy to make, customizable to your spice tolerance, and perfect for serving with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro. Chili con Carne is sure to become a staple in your comfort food repertoire, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold, Flavorful, and Spicy

The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cocoa powder creates a chili bursting with complex flavors. The red and green bell peppers and fresh chilies ensure a perfect balance of heat and freshness.

2. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses basic ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and beans, making it easy to prepare with items you probably already have in your pantry.

3. Customizable Heat Level

Adjust the heat to your preference by modifying the number of chilies or the chili powder amount, ensuring everyone can enjoy it just the way they like it.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

Chili con Carne stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or preparing in advance for busy days.

5. Comforting and Satisfying

This dish is hearty and filling, providing a cozy meal for any occasion. It pairs perfectly with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, making it versatile and satisfying.

Ingredients

Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Red chilies (optional)
Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
Tomato paste
Diced tomatoes
Kidney beans
Beef broth
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Ground coriander
Chili powder
Oregano
Cocoa powder
Salt and pepper

Variations

Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add more red chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat.
Beans: Swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans for different textures and flavors.
Slow Cooker Version: After browning the meat and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a more tender chili.
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeño slices, or avocado for additional flavor and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the diced tomatoes. Mix everything well.

Step 5: Add Beans and Broth

Add the kidney beans and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Season with Spices

Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili powder, oregano, and cocoa powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Simmer

Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together, and the chili will thicken.

Step 8: Serve

Once the chili is ready, serve it hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Layer the Flavors: Be sure to simmer the chili for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Longer simmering enhances the depth of flavor.
Adjust the Spice: Start with one chili and taste as you go. You can always add more heat but can’t take it out once it’s in!
Add a Dash of Sweetness: If you find the chili too tangy, add a small spoonful of brown sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
Thicken It Up: If you like a thicker chili, simmer it for longer to allow it to reduce, or mash some of the beans for a creamier texture.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chili sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to deepen and intensify.

How to Serve

Serve Chili Con Carne with a variety of accompaniments like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side salad. For extra flavor, add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. It also pairs beautifully with rice or over a baked potato.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

Chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chili in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of extra broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for beef, offering a lighter version of the chili.

2. Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas in place of kidney beans.

3. How can I make the chili milder?

To make it milder, use less chili powder and omit the fresh red chilies. You can also add a dollop of sour cream when serving to cool it down.

4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

5. What can I serve with chili besides cornbread?

Chili pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, a green salad, or even a baked potato.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the chili?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn to boost the nutritional value.

7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to chop them and cook them down until they release their juices. Add a bit of tomato paste for thickness.

8. Can I add cheese directly into the chili?

Yes, shredded cheese can be stirred into the chili before serving for a creamy texture.

9. How do I know when the chili is done?

The chili is done when it has thickened and the flavors have melded together. You can adjust the simmering time based on how thick or soupy you prefer your chili.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your beef broth is gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten.

Conclusion

Chili Con Carne is a hearty, flavorful dish that is perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. With its rich blend of spices, tender meat, and satisfying beans, this chili is sure to become a favorite. Whether you enjoy it with a bit of heat or prefer a milder version, it’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste. Don’t forget to top it with your favorite garnishes and enjoy this comforting dish all year round!