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Chili Con Carne

Featured in Family-Favorite Main Dishes.

Classic Chili con Carne with ground beef, beans and corn. Dark chocolate adds a special depth of flavor. Ready in 50 minutes, perfect for gatherings.
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Rehan Magic House Recipes
Updated on Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:28:10 GMT
Chili Con Carne Recipe - Simply Prepared! Pin it
Chili Con Carne Recipe - Simply Prepared! | magichouserecipes.com

A spicy Chili Con Carne combines juicy ground meat with beans and corn in an aromatic tomato sauce. The long cooking time develops intense flavors, while dark chocolate adds a special depth.

Our Basic Ingredients

  • High-quality ground beef: For the base
  • Kidney beans and corn: For texture
  • Fresh bell peppers: For freshness
  • Spice blend: For flavor
  • Dark chocolate: For depth

The Path to Perfect Chili

Develop the base:
Brown ground beef, sauté onions and garlic. Toast tomato paste.
Build flavors:
Add spices, deglaze with tomatoes. Simmer for a long time.
Finish:
Add beans, corn and chocolate. Season to taste with spices.

This hearty dish is perfect proof that good cuisine takes time.

Hearty Chili con Carne – Quick, simple & delicious Pin it
Hearty Chili con Carne – Quick, simple & delicious | magichouserecipes.com

Creative Variations

  • With different types of beans
  • Deglaze with dark beer
  • Add sweet potatoes
  • With different types of chilies

Serving Suggestions

  • With rice
  • With tortilla chips
  • With fresh baguette
  • With various toppings:
  • Crème fraîche
  • Guacamole
  • Grated cheese
  • Fresh herbs

Troubleshooting

  • Too liquid: reduce longer
  • Too spicy: add crème fraîche
  • Too mild: add more spices
  • Too dry: add broth
Simple Chili con Carne – Enjoyment in a few steps Pin it
Simple Chili con Carne – Enjoyment in a few steps | magichouserecipes.com

Storage

  • In the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • Frozen for up to 3 months
  • Add liquid when reheating
  • Tastes even better when reheated

This Chili Con Carne is a versatile basic recipe that can be adapted to taste. The long cooking time and combination of different spices make it a popular dish for cold days or large groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why add chocolate to chili?
Dark chocolate gives the chili a velvety texture and rounds out the flavors without making it taste sweet.
→ Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop and combine.
→ How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili powder and remove the seeds from fresh chilies. Adding a dollop of sour cream also helps tame the heat.
→ Can I use different beans?
Yes, black beans or pinto beans are good alternatives to kidney beans.
→ How can I freeze it?
Chili freezes very well. Store in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

Classic Chili Con Carne

Spicy Chili con Carne with ground beef, beans and the secret ingredient dark chocolate - a Mexican classic for the whole family.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Reham

Category: Main Courses

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main ingredients

01 500g ground beef (or use a mix of beef and pork for deeper flavor)
02 1 medium onion, finely diced
03 4 garlic cloves, minced
04 3 tablespoons tomato paste
05 1 fresh green chili, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
06 1 can kidney beans (about 400g), drained and rinsed
07 1 small can sweet corn (about 200g), drained
08 1 red bell pepper, diced
09 2 cans diced tomatoes (about 800g total)

→ Spices and seasonings

10 ¼-1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your heat preference)
11 1½ teaspoons paprika powder
12 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
13 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
14 20g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), broken into pieces

→ For serving

15 Dollops of crème fraîche or sour cream
16 Fresh crusty baguette for dipping
17 Handful of fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Instructions

Step 01

Dice the onion into small pieces, mince the garlic cloves, and cut the red bell pepper into small, even chunks. If using the fresh chili, remove the seeds and finely chop it.

Step 02

Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Add the diced onion, chopped chili (if using), and garlic. Continue cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 03

Stir in the tomato paste, diced bell pepper, chili powder, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step really develops the flavors! Pour in the canned tomatoes and add about ½ cup water. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 04

Add the drained beans, corn, dark chocolate pieces, and half the chopped parsley. Stir well and let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The chocolate adds a wonderful depth without making it taste sweet!

Notes

  1. This chili tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. Try making it a day ahead for an incredibly rich and complex flavor profile.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp chef's knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon for stirring and breaking up meat

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy if served with crème fraîche or sour cream (toppings can be omitted for dairy-free option)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~