Tex-Mex Chili Con Carne (30 Minutes)

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Tex-Mex Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the vibrant spices of Tex-Mex cuisine with the richness of chili. This delicious recipe features tender chunks of beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices for a satisfying and comforting meal. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a quick and delicious chili that packs a punch of flavor. Let’s get started!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • Additional toppings as desired

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally and break up the beef into smaller pieces.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Once the chili is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired and any additional toppings.

Notes

Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your preferences. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, choclo (Mexican corn), or sliced jalapeños to enhance the overall experience. Serve with rice, corn bread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Pair this with...

Jalapeño Corn Muffins

Begin by warming your oven and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, and an egg. Merge the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until they become friends. Now, fold in some finely diced jalapeños (adjusting the amount based on your heat preference) and perhaps a handful of grated cheddar cheese for added richness. Spoon this vibrant batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Into the oven they go! Bake until they rise proudly and sport a golden crown. Let them cool slightly, then dive in.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Start by draining and rinsing a can of black beans, then combine it with a cup of sweet corn (frozen and thawed works great, or fresh off the cob). Dice up a ripe tomato, a red pepper, and a red onion for some juicy crunch. For that herbal freshness, chop up a handful of cilantro and toss it in. Mix everything in a large bowl and give it a good stir. For dressing, squeeze the juice of one lime, drizzle a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix it all up, and voila!

Fried Plantains

Begin with some fresh plantains — the firmer, the better. First, peel them then cut the plantains into 1-inch thick slices. Heat a good amount of oil (like canola or vegetable) in a skillet over medium-high heat. When it's hot, carefully add the plantain slices. Fry them until they're golden on both sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels. Here's the fun part: while they're still warm, smash them lightly with the bottom of a jar or cup. Then, fry the smashed slices again until they're golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Sprinkle with a little salt while they're still hot, and you're set!

For Tomorrow's Dinner

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