Chili con Carne – A Cozy Classic in Your Cast-Iron Pot
The ultimate comfort food, slow-simmered for rich flavor.
Chili con Carne is a dish that brings warmth to any table. With tender beef, hearty beans, and a kick of spice, this recipe is perfect for cooking low and slow in a solid cast-iron pot. Gather friends, serve it straight from the pot, and let the cozy vibes flow!
🥘 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 600 g beef chuck or minced beef
- 150 g smoked bacon, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust heat to taste)
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 x 400 g cans chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400 ml beef stock
- 1 x 400 g can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 x 400 g can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the pot: Heat olive oil in your cast-iron pot. Add diced bacon and fry until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sear the beef: Brown the beef in batches until well-colored. Set aside with the bacon.
- Vegetables: Add onion, garlic, carrots, chili, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
- Season & deglaze: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Add tomatoes and beef stock, scraping the bottom well.
- Simmer: Return beef and bacon to the pot. Add bay leaf. Cover and let it simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours (low and slow brings out the best flavor).
- Beans: Stir in kidney and black beans. Simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes until thickened.
- Finish & serve: Adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with rice, bread, or nachos.
Why Cast-Iron Makes It Better
- Even heat distribution – perfect for slow simmering without burning.
- Moisture retention – keeps your chili juicy and flavorful.
- Oven-to-table beauty – serve straight from the pot for rustic charm.
- Durability – your pot will outlast any recipe (lifetime guarantee).
Chef’s Tips
- Add a square of dark chocolate at the end for extra depth and richness.
- Want it hotter? Swap one bell pepper for an extra chili pepper.
- Best the next day – chili develops deeper flavors when reheated gently.
Complete with the Right Pot 🎁
Our cast-iron pots are perfect for slow-simmered classics like chili. Available in vibrant colors to match your kitchen — and always with free delivery. Click here to explore our collection and pick the size and color that suits your home best.
Summary
Chili con Carne is a soul-warming dish that thrives in cast iron. With rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of spice, it’s guaranteed to be a family favorite. Try it once in your cast-iron pot, and you’ll never cook it any other way!
