Chile con Carne is a robust and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, savory spices, and chilies into a hearty stew. This classic recipe is a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine and is perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- Beef chuck: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Green bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced, or 1 large can (28 ounces)
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Beef broth: 2 cups
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed (optional)
- Chili powder: 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Ground cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Bay leaf: 1
- Dark chocolate: 1-2 squares (optional, for richness)
- Fresh cilantro: chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños: for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the spices cook with the vegetables for 1-2 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Stir in the bay leaf and, if using, dark chocolate to add depth to the flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper.
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Simmer the Chili:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- If using kidney beans, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through.
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Finish and Serve:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Chile con Carne hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños. Enjoy it with cornbread, over rice, or with a side of tortilla chips. This dish also pairs well with a cold beer or a robust red wine.
