Save Winter Warming Chili con Carne A hearty, robust stew featuring tender beef, beans, and warming spices—perfect for cold winter nights.
I first enjoyed making this chili during a cold winter and it quickly became a family favorite for its rich flavors and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck: 2 lbs (900 g), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Green bell pepper: 1, diced
- Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (optional for extra heat)
- Diced tomatoes: 2 x 14 oz (400 g) cans
- Kidney beans: 1 x 15 oz (425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 x 15 oz (425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Beef broth: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and brown on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same pot, add onions and cook for 3 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeño cook for another 3 4 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 5:
- Return browned beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well to combine.
- Step 6:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7:
- Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chili thickens and beef is tender.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Save This chili recipe always brings my family together on chilly evenings, sharing stories and warming up with a hearty meal.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy pot, Chef's knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon, Ladle
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy) unless toppings are used. If using sour cream or cheese, contains dairy. Always check canned goods and toppings for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 Total Fat: 13 g Carbohydrates: 33 g Protein: 40 g (per serving, without toppings)
Save 
This Chili con Carne is perfect for batch cooking and freezes well for easy meals later.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I adjust the heat level?
Reduce or omit cayenne pepper and jalapeño for milder flavor. Add more jalapeño or cayenne to increase spiciness.
- → Can I substitute ground beef?
Yes, using ground beef shortens cooking time by about 30 minutes and creates a finer texture.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Serves well alongside rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips to balance the rich, spicy flavors.
- → How to achieve a thicker chili consistency?
Simmer uncovered during the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
- → Are there allergen concerns?
The main ingredients are free from common allergens. Adding sour cream or cheese introduces dairy.