Chilli con carne (literally “chilli with meat”) is one of the most iconic dishes of Tex-Mex cuisine — a rich, hearty stew of beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, chilli peppers, and warm spices. While its exact origins are debated, it’s deeply rooted in the American Southwest and has become a global comfort food staple, especially popular for game days, parties, and cold evenings.

Origins & Cultural Importance Most food historians trace modern chilli con carne to 19th-century San Antonio, Texas, where “chilli queens” sold it as street food. It evolved from Mexican stews but became distinctly American. Today it’s the official state dish of Texas (despite Texas purists insisting no beans belong in

“real” chilli).

Ingredients (serves 6–8)

• 1 kg beef mince (ground chuck preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2–3 tbsp chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½–1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 × 400 g cans chopped tomatoes
• 2 × 400 g cans red kidney beans, rinsed & drained
• 500 ml beef stock
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1–2 squares dark chocolate (optional – adds depth)
• Salt, black pepper, fresh coriander

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large heavy pot. Brown the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd). Set aside.
2. In the same pot, cook onions 6–8 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Add garlic, chilli powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne → cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Return beef. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, stock, salt & pepper.
5. Bring to boil, then reduce to very low simmer. Cover and cook 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Add kidney beans in last 30 minutes.
7. Optional: stir in dark chocolate at the end for richness.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with cornbread, rice, sour cream, grated cheddar, spring onions, fresh coriander.

Tips for Best Results

• Low & slow is everything — the longer it simmers, the better it gets.
• Make it a day ahead — chilli always tastes better the next day.
• For “Texas style” → leave out the beans.
• Freeze beautifully in portions for months.

Nutritional Note ~420–480 kcal per serving (depending on toppings) – high protein, good iron & fibre.

Chilli Con Carne Visual Feast Here are some mouthwatering examples of perfectly cooked chilli con carne: