Sure, let’s dive into creating this delicious Chunky Chili Con Carne recipe together! This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for sharing with friends and family at gatherings. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 2 hours and 5 minutes, it’s a relatively quick and easy recipe that packs a punch of flavor 🌶️🥩.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Red kidney beans | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Canned green chilies | 1 can (4 oz) |
| Condensed tomato soup | 1 can (10.75 oz) |
And here’s how to make it:
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef and Onion: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Make sure to break apart the meat as it cooks to achieve a fine texture.
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Remove Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, use a spoon to remove any excess fat from the skillet. This step helps reduce the overall fat content of the dish and ensures a cleaner taste.
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Add Soup and Water: To the skillet with the beef and onion, add the condensed tomato soup and water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The soup adds depth of flavor and helps create a rich, savory base for the chili.
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Incorporate Beans and Flavorings: Drain and rinse the red kidney beans, then add them to the skillet along with the canned green chilies and vinegar. These ingredients add texture, spice, and acidity to the chili, enhancing its overall complexity.
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Simmer and Heat Through: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer gently, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Let it simmer for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.
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Add Tomato Paste: About halfway through the cooking process, add the tomato paste to the chili. This adds richness and depth of flavor, as well as helping to thicken the sauce. Stir well to incorporate the tomato paste into the chili, then continue simmering until the chili reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve and Garnish: Once the chili is heated through and reaches your desired consistency, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. You can also add additional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced green onions, if desired.
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Enjoy!: Serve your Chunky Chili Con Carne hot and enjoy the hearty flavors of this classic comfort food dish. It pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or rice, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
This Chunky Chili Con Carne recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of delicious homemade chili!
