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James Martin Chilli Con Carne Recipe

James Martin Chilli Con Carne recipe

James Martin’s Chilli Con Carne is a hearty Tex-Mex-inspired dish made with minced beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a robust blend of spices. Slow-cooked for rich depth, it features smoky paprika, cumin, and a kick of chili heat, making it perfect for spice lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chilli Con Carne:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 500g minced beef
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 400g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 250ml beef stock
  • 400g canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving (Optional):

  • Steamed rice
  • Sour cream
  • Grated cheese
  • Fresh coriander
  • Tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Sauté the onions and garlic – Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Add the bell pepper – Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Brown the minced beef – Increase the heat and add the minced beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over.
  4. Stir in the spices – Mix in the tomato purée, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
  5. Add the tomatoes and stock – Pour in the canned tomatoes and beef stock, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Let it cook slowly. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to deepen.
  7. Add the kidney beans – Stir in the drained kidney beans and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 10 minutes, allowing everything to meld together.
  8. Season and adjust – Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or more chili powder if needed.
  9. Serve and enjoy – Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with rice, sour cream, cheese, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.