Chili Con Carne with Seasonings: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food

Imagine a steaming bowl of chili on a chilly evening—the rich aroma filling your kitchen as you dive into a dish that’s the perfect balance of spice, savoriness, and texture. Chili Con Carne with Seasonings is a timeless recipe that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a potluck, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together.

Let’s guide you step-by-step to create the ultimate chili con carne that’s bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.

Why Chili Con Carne Deserves a Spot on Your Table

1. Rich Flavors: A combination of smoky spices, tender beef, and tangy tomatoes creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or game day, chili con carne is always a hit.
3. Customizable Heat Levels: You can adjust the spiciness to suit your palate, from mild to fiery hot.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Ingredients for Chili Con Carne with Seasonings

Here’s what you’ll need, broken down into categories for convenience:

Seasonings

Ingredient	Measurement
Chili powder	2 tablespoons
Cumin	1 tablespoon
Oregano	2 teaspoons
Smoked paprika	2 teaspoons
Cayenne pepper	¼ teaspoon
Red pepper flakes	1 pinch

For the Beef

Ingredient	Measurement
Boneless beef chuck	3 lbs., cut into chunks
Salt and pepper	To taste
Flour	1/3 cup
Olive oil	3 tablespoons

For the Chili

Ingredient	Measurement
Beer	12 oz.
Butter	2 tablespoons
Yellow onion, diced	1
Jalapeno peppers, diced	2
Green bell pepper, diced	1
Garlic, minced	4 cloves
Light brown sugar	2 tablespoons
Tomato paste	3 tablespoons
Masa harina (optional)	2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce	2 teaspoons
Hot sauce	2 teaspoons
Beef broth	4 cups
Crushed tomatoes	28 oz.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies	10 oz., undrained
Bay leaves	2
Kidney beans, drained	16 oz.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chili Con Carne

1. Prepare the Seasonings

• Combine chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

2. Season and Sear the Beef

• Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels.
• Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of the seasoning mix. Toss to coat.
• Dust the beef lightly with flour and toss again.
• Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat.
• Sear the beef in batches, ensuring the pieces don’t crowd the pot. Cook for 1–1 ½ minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Deglaze the Pot with Beer

• Pour the beer into the hot pot.
• Use a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this step is crucial for adding depth of flavor.
• Let the beer bubble and reduce by half, about 7–8 minutes.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add butter to the pot, followed by the diced onions, jalapenos, and bell peppers.
• Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften.

5. Build the Base

• Stir in the remaining seasoning mix, minced garlic, brown sugar, and tomato paste.
• If using masa harina, sprinkle it in at this stage for added thickness.
• Add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

6. Combine the Ingredients

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth.
• Add bay leaves and stir to combine.
• Return the seared beef (along with its juices) to the pot.

7. Simmer to Perfection

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer uncovered for 3–3 ½ hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• The chili will thicken and develop a rich, concentrated flavor over time.

8. Add the Beans

• About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the kidney beans.
• Heat through for 10–15 minutes, then taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.

Tips for Making the Best Chili Con Carne

1. Choose the Right Beef: Boneless beef chuck is perfect for its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.
2. Don’t Skip the Beer: It adds a subtle depth and bitterness that balances the dish. If you prefer, use beef broth as a substitute.
3. Low and Slow Cooking: This recipe requires patience. The long simmering process is key to tender meat and a well-developed flavor.
4. Adjust the Heat: Add more cayenne or hot sauce if you prefer spicier chili.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairings: Serve with cornbread, steamed rice, or tortilla chips.
• Toppings: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even hot dogs.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	6 g

FAQs About Chili Con Carne with Seasonings

1. Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

2. Can I freeze chili con carne?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use ground beef instead of beef chunks?

Yes, but the texture will differ. Searing beef chunks gives a more authentic and hearty feel.

4. What type of beer should I use?

A dark beer like a stout or lager works best, but feel free to use your favorite. Avoid overly bitter IPAs.

5. Is masa harina necessary?

No, it’s optional. It helps thicken the chili and adds a subtle corn flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

6. How can I make this chili gluten-free?

Substitute flour with cornstarch or omit it altogether. Use gluten-free beer or more beef broth as a replacement.

Conclusion: Bring the Heat to Your Kitchen

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Chili Con Carne with Seasonings, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This hearty and flavorful dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table.

What are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your pot, and let the magic begin!

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