Recipe Chili con Carne

Chili con carne is a classic dish that offers a rich blend of flavors and spices, making it a popular choice for gatherings and family dinners. This hearty stew features ground beef, beans, and a mix of vegetables, resulting in a satisfying meal that can be customized to your desired spice level. Serve it with rice or crusty bread for a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef
• 400g canned red beans (1 can)
• 2 cans chopped tomatoes
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Method

1. Start by preparing the vegetables: peel and finely chop the onions, celery, garlic, and carrots. Halve the bell peppers, remove the seeds, and slice them into strips.
2. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and spices (chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper) to the pot. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the drained red beans and chopped tomatoes to the pot, followed by the ground beef. Break up any large clumps of meat with a wooden spoon.
4. If the ground beef is fatty, it’s best to brown it in a separate pan, drain the excess fat, and then add it to the pot with the vegetables.
5. Fill one of the tomato cans with water, swirl it to capture any leftover tomato sauce, and pour it into the pot.
6. Chop the parsley stems and add them to the pot, reserving the leaves for later. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
8. After an hour, uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. If the chili is too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve the hot chili con carne with basmati rice, boiled potatoes, or couscous, and top with fresh parsley, natural yogurt, guacamole, and lime wedges as desired. Enjoy!