Chilli Con Carne

Chilli Con Carne

Chilli Con Carne is more than just a meal; it is a bowl of comfort that brings together a complex profile of flavors, textures, and health benefits. Translating literally to “chilli with meat,” this dish has evolved from its humble Tex-Mex roots into a global favorite. Whether you are looking for a post-workout protein boost or a slow-cooked Sunday dinner, this recipe is designed to nourish the body and soul.

At Good Food Remedies, we believe that food is the first step toward wellness. By using fresh spices, lean proteins, and fiber-rich legumes, this chilli becomes a nutritional powerhouse. It’s a versatile dish that stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. If you are new to the world of functional eating, you might want to start by exploring our guide to natural healing through food to see how every ingredient plays a role in your health.

Nutrition per serving

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 385 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 9g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 34g
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Iron: 25% DV
• Potassium: 850mg

Ingredients

To achieve the best depth of flavor and maximize the remedial properties of your ingredients, we recommend using high-quality organic produce.

• The Meat: 500g lean ground beef (10% fat or less). For those looking for plant-based alternatives, you can swap this for lentils or mushrooms.
• The Aromatics: 2 medium onions (finely diced), 3 cloves of garlic (minced), and 1 red bell pepper (chopped).
• The Spice Base: 2 tbsp mild chili powder, 1 tsp hot smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ½ tsp cinnamon.
• The Liquid & Body: 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato purée, 300ml beef stock, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
• The Beans: 1 can (400g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
• The Secret of “Good Food”: 1 small square of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) to enrich the sauce.
• Finish with a generous pinch of sea salt and coarse black pepper.
• 1 tbsp of your preferred high-heat cooking oil (olive or avocado).

Tip

For the absolute best results, patience is your greatest ingredient. While you can cook a chilli in 30 minutes, the flavors truly marry and deepen if you allow it to simmer on low heat for at least 60 to 90 minutes.

Another professional tip: Toast your dry spices. Before adding the liquid, stir the cumin, paprika, and chili powder into the meat and onions for 60 seconds. The heat releases the essential oils in the spices, creating a much more aromatic and vibrant base for your sauce. To understand more about how these aromatic compounds support your body, check out our comprehensive spice health index.

If you are looking to balance this meal with specific health goals, such as managing inflammation or boosting energy, you can find more tailored advice in our remedies by condition section.

Method

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, warm the oil over a steady medium flame. Cook the diced onions for 5 minutes, or until they lose their crunch. Add the red pepper and garlic, stirring to combine. Garlic is a staple in many of our immune-boosting recipes, so don’t be afraid to add an extra clove!
2. Browning: Add and stir the red pepper and garlic. Add the ground beef and crumble it with a wooden spoon as it browns.Continue cooking until the meat is evenly browned throughout. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lean and heart-healthy.
3. Layer the Spices: Add the tomato purée, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Stir constantly for one minute. This “blooming” process is essential for extracting the antioxidant properties found in dried herbs and spices.
4. The Simmer: Pour in the chopped tomatoes, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a very low simmer and cover with a lid. Let it cook for at least 45 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Beans and Secret Ingredient: Remove the lid and stir in the drained kidney beans and the square of dark chocolate. The beans add a massive hit of plant-based protein and fiber, which are pillars of our healthy gut lifestyle.
6. The Final Reduction: Leave the lid off and continue to simmer for another 15–20 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken naturally without the need for processed thickening agents.
7. Serve and Garnish: Serve your Chilli Con Carne over brown rice or quinoa. For more ideas on nutritious sides, browse our healthy side dish collection. Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime to add a fresh “zing” and a dose of Vitamin C.

Why This Recipe Fits Your Wellness Journey

At Good Food Remedies, we focus on recipes that serve a functional purpose. This chilli is rich in iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, and fiber, which promotes satiety and digestive health. By choosing home-cooked meals over processed options, you are taking a proactive step toward a healthier lifestyle.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like to explore our other nutrient-dense dinner ideas that focus on whole-food ingredients and simple cooking techniques. Remember, A healthier you begins with the meals you create at home.