Prize-Winning Chili Con Carne
Prep
35 mins
Cook
2 hrs 20 mins
Servings
2
Difficulty
Hard
This is the chili recipe that won me twenty thousand dollars in a national competition, and honestly, I still can't believe it happened. The secret is in the unexpected combination of spices and a touch of cocoa that adds incredible depth without anyone quite knowing what it is. Using lean pork alongside chuck beef keeps it healthier than traditional versions while adding amazing flavor complexity. What I love most is that this recipe won't break the bank for ingredients you probably already have, and it comes together in under three hours from start to finish. Every time I make it, friends ask for the recipe, and now I'm sharing my winning formula with you.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 1 kglean chuck (beef)(ground)
- ½ kglean pork(ground)
- 237 mlonion(finely chopped)
- 4garlic cloves(finely chopped)
- 1 12 ouncecan of lager
- 8 ouncestomato sauce
- 237 mlwater
- 3 tablespoonschili powder
- 2 tablespoonscumin(ground)
- 2 tablespoonsbouillon(or 6 cubes)
- 2 teaspoonsoregano leaves
- 2 teaspoonspaprika
- 2 teaspoonssugar
- 1 teaspoonunsweetened cocoa
- 1 teaspooncoriander(ground)
- 1 teaspoonlouisiana hot sauce(or to taste)
- 1 teaspoonflour
- 1 teaspooncornmeal
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
In large saucepan or Dutch oven, brown half the meat; pour off fat. Remove meat.
- 2
Brown remaining meat; pour off all fat except 2 Tbsps.
- 3
Add onion, garlic; cook and stir until tender.
- 4
Add meat and remaining ingredients except flour, cornmeal and warm water. Mix well.
- 5
Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer covered 2 hours.
- 6
Stir together flour and cornmeal; add warm water. Mix well.
- 7
Stir into chili mixture. Cook covered 20 minutes longer.
- 8
Serve hot.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Yuzu Collins
Have you tried a Yuzu Collins? This is my go to drink when I want something refreshing that comes together in just five minutes. The yuzu juice adds this beautiful citrus brightness that feels fancy but honestly couldn't be easier to make. I love that yuzu is packed with vitamin C, so you're basically getting a little immune boost while you enjoy your cocktail. It's the kind of drink that impresses friends without requiring any special bartending skills, perfect for a casual evening at home.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.