Award Winning Chili Con Carne

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio)
• 1 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 green bell peppers, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-oz) can whole tomatoes, diced (with juice)
• 1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (12-oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup ale (optional)
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

2 hours

Difficulty Level:

3 (moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, beef broth, ale (if using), chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded.
5. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and onions.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 380
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• Flavorful: Spicy, savory, and comforting
• Hearty: Loaded with ground beef, beans, and vegetables
• Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite toppings
• Perfect for gatherings: Serves 8 people

User Comments:

• "This chili is the best I've ever had! The flavors are out of this world."
• "I love how hearty and satisfying this chili is, but it's not too heavy."
• "I've tried many chili recipes, but this one always wins the crowd."
• "The spice level is perfect - it has a kick without being overwhelming."
• "I make this chili all the time, and it's always a hit."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have ale on hand, you can substitute with water or beef broth.
• For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper to taste.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the chili before serving.
• Chili is even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.