Chili con carne

Tex-Mex classic

This Tex-Mex classic was still missing from the site, which is kind of surprising since I’m a big fan of chili con carne.

This dish is not only really tasty, but also versatile and easy to adjust to your own taste. You can of course use a store-bought seasoning packet, but it’s much more fun and honestly better to mix your own spices. And trust me, you can taste the difference right away. Making chili con carne is simple, and you can take it anywhere from mild to pretty spicy.

What is chili con carne?

Chili con carne literally means “chili with meat” in Spanish and refers to a rich stew made with meat and chili peppers. Originally, it was made with just beef, but that was too expensive for many people. So ground beef or even bacon was used instead. That made the dish more affordable while keeping its full flavor. Over time, the recipe evolved and more ingredients were added, like beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

Variations and extra ingredients

In a typical Tex-Mex version of chili con carne, extra ingredients are added that really give the dish its signature flavor. Alongside the basics like ground beef, chili peppers, and tomatoes, it’s common to add bell peppers, beans, and corn. But you can easily go beyond that.

We like to add carrots for a bit of color and extra flavor. We also use cayenne pepper instead of fresh chili peppers, but that’s completely up to you. There are plenty of ways to switch things up, so feel free to add other vegetables or spices based on what you like.

Serving tips

Chili con carne works really well with a variety of sides. Think white rice, tortillas, or potatoes, which all go great with the rich, slightly spicy flavors of the stew. To finish it off, you can serve it with a spoonful of sour cream or some guacamole.

For even more flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top. The freshness of the sour cream or guacamole, the creaminess of the cheese, and the heat from the chili all come together in a dish you’ll want to make again.

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