The Irresistible Flavor of Green Chili Con Carne (Carne Con Chile)

Green chili con carne, also known as carne con chile, is a classic Tex-Mex dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This dish is known for its rich flavor, spicy kick, and tender meat that melts in your mouth. Whether you are a seasoned Tex-Mex foodie or new to the world of spicy cuisine, you will love the irresistible flavors of green chili con carne.

History and Origin

The roots of green chili con carne trace back to Texas in the early 1800s, where it was created by Mexican-American ranchers and cowboys. The dish was made using beef, chili peppers, and spices and was cooked over an open flame. Over time, green chili con carne became a staple in Texan cuisine and spread throughout the United States.

Today, green chili con carne is enjoyed all over the world and is a popular item on the menus of many Tex-Mex restaurants. This spicy dish has even become a favorite for home cooks, due to its ease of preparation and wide availability of ingredients.

The Ingredients

Green chili con carne is a mouthwatering blend of beef, chili peppers, and spices. The heat level of the dish can vary depending on the type and amount of peppers used, but generally, it has a moderate to high level of spiciness.

If you are a fan of spicy foods, you will love the heat and spice of green chili con carne. The dish typically includes various peppers such as green chilies, jalapenos, and serrano peppers. These peppers not only add heat to the dish but also a unique flavor profile that is both savory and aromatic.

How it is Served

Green chili con carne is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. One of the most popular ways to serve it is on top of nachos or as a dip with tortilla chips. This savory dish can also be served as a main course with rice or bread, or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

The dish also pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as beans, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also add toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado slices to enhance the taste and texture of the dish.

The Bottom Line

Green chili con carne is a dish that is full of flavor and spice. The rich flavor of the beef, combined with the heat and aroma of the peppers, makes for a mouthwatering dish that is impossible to resist. Whether you are looking to spice up your dinner routine or are seeking out a new Tex-Mex favorite, green chili con carne is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (4.5 oz each) chopped green chilies, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano leaves

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
2. Add in chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until onions are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped green chilies, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot, stirring to combine.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, and dried oregano leaves to the pot, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors are well combined and the dish has thickened to your liking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ask the Chef – Tips & Tricks

Properly Cook Ground Beef: Be sure to break the ground beef into small pieces as it cooks using a wooden spoon or spatula. This will help it cook evenly and avoid large chunks of meat in your chili.
Use Quality Tomatoes: The flavor and consistency of your chili will depend on the quality and type of tomatoes you use. You can use whole, diced, or crushed tomatoes, but try to choose high-quality canned tomatoes for a better result.
Adjust Spices: The amount of chili powder, cumin, and oregano can be adjusted according to your taste preference. Always start with less than you think you might need, and add more as you go.
Add Beans: If you like beans in your chili, add a drained and rinsed can of kidney, pinto, or black beans to the pot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Toppings: Consider garnishing your chili with toppings such as grated cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapenos, scallions, or cilantro.
Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the chili to help loosen it up if needed.