Spicy Chili Con Carne

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Get ready to spice up your dinner with this hearty Spicy Chili Con Carne! It's perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warming and satisfying, packing a flavorful punch with every bite.

Ingredients for Spicy Chili Con Carne

Ground beef is the heart of this chili, providing a rich, meaty base. If you're aiming for a leaner dish, you could swap in ground turkey or chicken. Kidney beans and black beans add protein and a satisfying texture; just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium. Diced tomatoes contribute a fresh, tangy note that balances the richness of the beef. Onion, garlic, and red bell pepper form the aromatic base, while the jalapeño pepper brings the heat. For the spices, chili powder provides a deep, earthy flavor, cumin adds warmth, smoked paprika lends a subtle smokiness, and cayenne pepper gives an extra kick. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Olive oil is used for sautéing, and beef broth adds depth and moisture to the chili.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you like a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot.
  • For a deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer. An extra 15-20 minutes can make a difference.
  • Consider making this a day ahead; the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chili hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a cooling contrast. It's fantastic with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of steamed rice. If you're feeling adventurous, top it with shredded cheese and some fresh cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with extra beans or a meat substitute like tempeh.
How can I reduce the spiciness?
Omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the jalapeño for a milder chili.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Spicy Chili Con Carne Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in your chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño. Sauté this mix for about 5 minutes until they're softened and releasing their aromas. Next, add your ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it's browned all over, which should take about 6-8 minutes.

Now, it's time to spice things up. Stir in your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the beef is nicely coated with the spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, then add your drained kidney beans and black beans. Stir everything together, and bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Be sure to give it a stir every now and then to prevent sticking.

After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a bit more salt or another pinch of cayenne for extra heat. Your chili is now ready to serve!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  • Rich, bold flavors that pack a punch without overwhelming heat.
  • Uses pantry staples, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
  • Easily adaptable to suit your spice tolerance and dietary needs.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup beef broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño; sauté until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

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