Chili con carne, often simply called “chili,” is a beloved dish that embodies the spirit of comfort food with its rich, spicy flavors and hearty ingredients. This iconic dish, with roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, has become a staple in homes and restaurants across the United States and beyond. In this article, we will delve into the history of chili con carne, provide a detailed recipe for making the perfect pot, and offer some variations to suit different tastes.
History of Chili con Carne

The origins of chili con carne are as rich and varied as the dish itself. While it is commonly associated with Tex-Mex cuisine, its exact beginnings are a subject of debate. Some historians trace its roots back to the Spanish Canary Islanders who settled in San Antonio, Texas, in the 1700s. These settlers brought with them a tradition of cooking meat with peppers and spices, which laid the groundwork for what would eventually become chili con carne.
In the late 1800s, chili gained popularity through “chili queens” in San Antonio. These women sold chili from open-air stalls, serving bowls of the spicy stew to locals and travelers alike. The dish’s fame spread, and by the early 20th century, chili parlors had sprung up across Texas and other parts of the United States, each with its own unique recipe.
Classic Chili con Carne Recipe
Making a pot of chili con carne is a rewarding experience, filling your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and yielding a dish that warms the soul. Here’s a classic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients Chili con Carne
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions (for serving)
I made chili con carne for my whole family today!! 🌶️🥘#foodtwt #lifetwt #archivetwt pic.twitter.com/NnJr5L4gnx
— giuli (@aprilsdiaries) June 15, 2024
Instructions Chili con Carne
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeños. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom. Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine. If you prefer a slightly sweet chili, add the brown sugar at this stage.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will become.
- Finish with Vinegar: Stir in the apple cider vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on the side.
Variations of Chili con Carne
Chili con carne is incredibly versatile, and there are countless ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace the meat with a variety of beans (such as pinto, black, and cannellini) and add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and corn for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Turkey Chili: Substitute ground turkey for the beef to create a lighter version of this classic dish. Turkey chili is lower in fat but still packed with flavor.
- White Chicken Chili: Use shredded chicken and white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern beans) in a broth-based chili seasoned with green chilies, cumin, and oregano. This variation is milder and creamier than traditional red chili.
- Sweet and Spicy Chili: Add a touch of sweetness with ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or even a splash of orange juice. Balance the sweetness with extra heat from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or hot sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chili
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality, fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final dish. Opt for fresh spices and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Slow Cooking: Allowing the chili to simmer slowly helps the flavors to meld and develop. If you have the time, let it cook for several hours.
- Taste and Adjust: Throughout the cooking process, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime juice can make all the difference.
Chili con carne is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich history, robust flavors, and endless variations make it a favorite among many. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore different versions, the key to a great chili lies in the quality of ingredients and the love you put into making it. So, gather your ingredients, take your time, and enjoy the delicious, satisfying experience of homemade chili con carne.