When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavours of chili con carne. Cooked to perfection in a cast iron braiser, this hearty dish is packed with bold flavours and a delightful mix of textures. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a satisfying family meal, this recipe delivers a wholesome experience that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients for chili con carne
- 500 grams ground beef
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 can (400 grams) of brown beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400 grams) of diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (200 grams) of sweetcorn, drained
- 1 packet of taco seasoning mix
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup water
- Fresh herbs (such as coriander or parsley), chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Heat your cast iron braiser over medium heat for a few minutes. Once warm, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add the chopped onions to the braiser and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Toss in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Push the vegetables to one side of the braiser and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stir in the taco seasoning mix, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated. Add the tomato paste and stir well to intensify the flavours.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, water, and brown beans. Stir everything together, bring it to a gentle simmer, and reduce the heat to low. Cover the braiser and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the drained sweetcorn and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Once done, ladle the chili con carne into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of colour and flavour.
Tips for the perfect chili con carne
- Choose the right beef: choose for ground beef with a bit of fat for richer flavour. Lean meat works too, but you may need to add extra seasoning.
- Customise the heat: for more spice, add fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Let it rest: once cooked, let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes in the braiser to allow the flavours to meld.
- Make it ahead: chili con carne tastes even better the next day, so consider preparing it in advance for an easy reheat meal.
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re pairing it with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. Why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your braiser, and savour the joy of making a classic that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat. Bon appétit!
