Modified Chili Con Carne

Modified Chili Con Carne Recipe from Mexico with Pinto Beans and Fresh Ingredients

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chili con carne is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This modified version of the recipe adds a unique twist to the traditional flavors, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

History

Chili con carne has its origins in the American Southwest, where it was traditionally made with beef, chili peppers, and spices. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as beans, tomatoes, and onions. This modified version of chili con carne stays true to the original flavors while adding a few extra ingredients for a tasty twist.

Ingredients

1 cup pinto beans
3 cups water
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cups onion
1 green bell pepper
1 lb (454 g) lean ground beef
2 cups tomato
6 oz (170 g) unsalted tomato paste
0.75 cup water
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp garlic clove
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp cumin
0.25 tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf

How to prepare

Place beans and 3 cups of water in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Do not drain.
Set aside for 1 hour.
Return beans to heat, adding water to cover if necessary.
Simmer for one hour or until beans are tender.
Drain and set aside.
Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven.
Add onion and green pepper. Cook until onion is transparent.
Add meat and brown.
Pour off all fat.
Add beans and remaining ingredients.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Remove bay leaf before serving.
Note: You may substitute 3 cups of no-salt-added canned kidney beans instead of dried beans and water.
Also, unsalted canned tomatoes can be substituted for the fresh tomatoes.

Variations

Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Stir in a can of black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans before cooking helps to reduce cooking time and improve texture.

- Browning the meat before adding it to the chili adds depth of flavor.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

- For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chili con carne hot with a side of cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the chili for an extended period of time allows the flavors to meld together.

- Browning the meat before adding it to the chili adds depth of flavor.

- Adjusting the seasonings to taste is key to creating a delicious chili.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

- Substitute kidney beans or black beans for pinto beans.

- Use diced canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

This chili con carne can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro for a colorful and flavorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the chili con carne with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 22g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 3mg per serving

Vitamin C: 15mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This modified chili con carne recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This modified chili con carne recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With a balance of flavors and nutrients, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a cold winter evening, and my dear friend Maria invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of simmering spices and savory meat. Maria was busy stirring a large pot on the stove, and she had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she beckoned me closer.

"Come, my dear, and taste my modified chili con carne," she said with a smile. "I promise you've never had anything quite like it before."

I eagerly accepted her offer and took a tentative spoonful of the rich, spicy stew. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and smokiness. I couldn't help but let out a delighted sigh as I savored every bite.

Maria chuckled at my reaction and explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. She had modified it over the years, adding her own twist to make it truly unique.

As we enjoyed our meal, Maria shared with me the story of how she had come to learn the recipe herself. It was a tale of love, loss, and a deep appreciation for good food.

Maria's grandmother, Isabella, had been a renowned cook in their small village in Mexico. She had a deep love for traditional Mexican cuisine and had spent years perfecting her recipes. Isabella's chili con carne was a staple in the village, and people would travel from far and wide just to taste it.

Maria had grown up watching her grandmother in the kitchen, mesmerized by the way she effortlessly transformed simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. She would sit at Isabella's feet, listening to her stories and absorbing her wisdom about cooking.

When Maria was old enough, Isabella began teaching her the family recipes. Maria would help her grandmother chop vegetables, grind spices, and stir pots of bubbling stew. It was during these moments that Maria learned not just how to cook, but also the importance of tradition, family, and love in every dish.

One day, tragedy struck the village. A devastating flood swept through, destroying homes and crops and leaving many families homeless. Isabella's house was not spared, and she lost everything she had worked so hard to build.

In the aftermath of the flood, Isabella's health began to decline. She grew weaker and weaker, until one day she called Maria to her bedside.

"My dear," she whispered, her voice barely a whisper. "I have one last gift to give you. The recipe for my modified chili con carne. Promise me you will carry on the tradition and share it with the world."

Tears welled up in Maria's eyes as she held her grandmother's hand, promising to fulfill her dying wish. And so, she took up the mantle of the family cook, determined to keep Isabella's memory alive through her beloved recipes.

As I listened to Maria's story, I couldn't help but be moved by the deep love and passion she had for her family's culinary legacy. I knew then that I had to learn how to make her modified chili con carne for myself.

Maria graciously agreed to teach me, and over the following weeks, I spent countless hours in her kitchen, learning the intricacies of the recipe. She showed me how to choose the best cuts of meat, how to toast and grind the spices, and how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

And finally, after much practice and patience, I was able to recreate Maria's modified chili con carne in my own kitchen. The first time I tasted the finished dish, I was transported back to that cold winter evening in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by love, tradition, and the delicious aroma of simmering spices.

To this day, whenever I make Maria's modified chili con carne, I feel a deep connection to her, to her grandmother Isabella, and to the generations of strong, talented women who came before me. And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of the savory stew, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to keep traditions alive.