Proper PubGrub Chilli Beef Chilli Con Carne

Proper Pubgrub Chilli Beef Chilli Con Carne

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered what makes a proper pub chilli tick? This beef chilli con carne is your answer. It's hearty, packed with flavour, and guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly evening.
Think of it as the ultimate pub-grub chilli , perfect with a pint!
What's the Big Deal?
This isn't just any old chilli recipe . It's inspired by the kind of homemade chilli you'd find simmering away in a proper British pub.
This is proper hearty chilli recipe , with the flavours of slow-cooked beef and a touch of smokiness.
This easy chilli recipe originates from classic Texan cuisine, though, many people assume it's just a Mexican dish. This is an accessible dish, it's not difficult to make at all and, more importantly, it’s ideal for serving the whole family chilli recipe .
Why You'll Love This Chilli
The best thing about this best chilli recipe is how easy it is to make. This chilli recipe only requires about 25 minutes of preparation time and then a few hours for cooking.
Slow cooking the beef makes it super tender and flavourful.
A top benefit of this meal is that it's packed with protein and fiber. Plus, the chilli powder spice blend gives it a nice antioxidant boost! Serve it at your next casual get-together or make a big batch for a cosy night in.
You can even make this with a slow cooker chilli recipe for even more convenience!
What makes this chilli recipe special? It's that perfect balance of rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavours. And it's super versatile - pile on your favourite chilli toppings , from sour cream to avocado.
Before We Get Started
Let's gather the ingredients. We need some diced beef, veggies, and the all-important spices. Get ready for a flavour explosion!
Right, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this awesome pub-grub chilli. Honestly, it's easier than you think. Think less MasterChef, more comforting Sunday dinner.
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
Okay, so for this beef chilli con carne , you'll need:
- 2 lbs (900g) Beef chuck, cubed. Get a good cut of beef. Marbling is your friend, trust me.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil. Any oil will do, really.
- 1 Large onion, diced. Don't skimp, it adds sweetness.
- 2 Cloves of garlic, minced. The more garlic the merrier!
- 1 Green and 1 Red bell pepper, diced. Colour is king!
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste. Gives it that rich, deep flavour.
- 1 (14.5 oz / 400g) can Diced tomatoes, undrained. Tinned toms are your pal.
- 1 (12 oz / 340g) bottle Dark beer. Stout or porter works best. If not, don't sweat it.
- 2 cups (475ml) Beef broth. Get the good stuff, if you can.
Seasoning Notes: The Flavour Bomb
The chilli powder spice blend is key! This is where the magic happens.
- 2 tbsp Chilli powder. Mild to medium, go hotter if you dare!
- 1 tbsp Smoked paprika. Adds a smoky depth, proper lush.
- 1 tsp Ground cumin. Essential for that earthy flavour.
- 1/2 tsp Dried oregano. It just works, you know?
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper. For a cheeky kick, more if you're brave.
- 1 tsp Brown sugar. Balances the spices, a secret weapon!
- 1/2 tsp Salt, and 1/4 tsp Black pepper. Basics are important.
For a quick sub, a pre-made fajita seasoning mix can work in a pinch. But homemade chilli is always best, isn't it?
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You really don't need a fancy kitchen for the best chilli recipe .
- A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. That's where the slow cooker chilli recipe starts!.
- A wooden spoon. For stirring, obviously.
- Measuring spoons and cups. No need to be exact, just have a rough idea.
- A sharp knife. For chopping those pesky veggies.
If you haven't got a Dutch oven, a big saucepan will do just fine. This is family chilli recipe material, so nothing fancy needed.
You know? Time to start cooking and get your chilli toppings ready! This easy chilli recipe for a hearty chilli recipe awaits!.
Right, let's get down to it! Fancy making a proper pub-grub chilli ? Not that watery stuff your aunt makes, but the best chilli recipe that warms you right up? This hearty chilli recipe is inspired by proper British pub grub.
Think beef chilli con carne with a bit of a kick. Less "bake-off," more "big night in".
Chilli Time: Prep Like a Pro
First, the boring but vital bit: prep. It's called mise en place , fancy pants! Chop your 900g beef chuck into 2.
5cm cubes . Dice one large onion , mince two cloves of garlic , and finely dice a green and a red bell pepper.
Get your spices ready and measure out your spice blend . Honestly, doing this first saves a world of stress.
From Zero to Chilli Hero: Step-by-Step Guide
- Sear the Beef. Season beef with salt and pepper. Over medium-high heat, get some oil ripping hot in your Dutch oven. Brown the beef in batches, then set it aside. Don't overcrowd the pan, or you'll steam it, not sear it.
- Sauté. Turn the heat to medium, then in the same pot, soften the onion and peppers for around 5- 7 minutes . Chuck in the garlic for the last minute, until it smells amazing.
- Spice It Up. Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Then, add your chilli powder spice blend and cook for 30 seconds , stirring. It smells incredible!
- Deglaze. Pour in your 340ml dark beer (stout or porter if you're feeling fancy), scraping up all those lovely bits from the bottom. Flavour town, right there.
- Simmer, Simmer. Add your diced tomatoes, 475ml beef broth and beef back to the pot. Simmer, then turn the heat right down, cover, and cook for 2- 3 hours . You want the beef falling apart. This makes for an amazing family chilli recipe .
- Taste Test. Season it, add more chilli powder or cayenne if needed . This is your homemade chilli , so make it perfect for you.
- Serve Ladle into bowls and serve with your favourite chilli toppings .
Pro Level Chilli Tips
- Don't rush! That slow cooker chilli recipe is the way to go for mega flavour.
- Spice smart. For extra depth, toast your whole spices lightly before grinding, if you are making your own.
- Heat control. If you're scared of spice, start small with the cayenne. You can always add more! And remember, taste test! It is a easy chilli recipe , you can't mess it up!
Right then, there you have it! My tried-and-tested proper pub-grub chilli . Get cracking and make this tasty beef chilli con carne .
Now, go forth and make some magic happen in the kitchen .
Recipe Notes For Your Proper Pub-Grub Chilli
Right then, you're about to make the best chilli recipe you've ever tasted. Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to really nail it.
I've made this family chilli recipe so many times, and I've learned a few tricks along the way. Honestly, these tips can make all the difference.
Serving Suggestions: Get Your Plating On!
Think beyond just dumping it in a bowl. For a proper pub-grub chilli experience, ladle that hearty chilli recipe into a bowl and top with a dollop of sour cream.
Then sprinkle with shredded cheddar, and a scattering of chopped green onions. A couple of tortilla chips stuck in the side add a nice bit of crunch.
As for sides, cornbread is a classic for a reason. If you’re feeling fancy, a simple coleslaw cuts through the richness nicely.
For drinks, a cold beer is the obvious choice. A lime margarita works surprisingly well too. You know?
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Leftover homemade chilli is even better the next day, right? To store it, let it cool completely first. Then, pop it into an airtight container.
It'll keep in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, divide it into portions before freezing, that way you're not defrosting a mountain of chilli every time you want a quick bite.
When you're ready to reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and then gently simmer it on the hob until heated through.
Easy peasy!
Variations: Make It Your Own
Want to adapt this easy chilli recipe ? Swap out the beef for chicken for a lighter take. Throw in some extra veggies like sweetcorn or butternut squash to make it vegetarian.
For a dietary twist you could even add in lentils instead of meat. If you wanna kick up the heat, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of your favourite hot sauce.
When it comes to the chilli powder spice blend it's your opportunity to let loose.
Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body
Okay, I'm no dietician, but here's the lowdown. This beef chilli con carne is packed with protein from the beef.
It also has fibre from the tomatoes and peppers. Watch out for the sodium content, especially if you're using shop-bought broth.
This dish is a powerhouse of flavor and goodness. You know? It’s comfort food with benefits!
So there you have it! I'm talking about my slow cooker chilli recipe too. If you prefer this version, just throw everything to it and cook it to low for 6- 8 hours.
Now go forth and make this chilli recipe your own. And don’t forget the chilli toppings ! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chilli recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Just like a good Sunday roast, the longer it cooks, the more the flavours meld together. You might need to add a splash of extra broth if it gets too thick, mind you.
What's the best way to store leftover chilli?
Leftover chilli is practically a gift from the gods! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Or, for longer storage, portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just like your favourite cheese, it will be a welcome sight later.
My chilli is too spicy! How can I tone it down?
Oops, bit of a fire-breather, is it? Don't panic! Adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving will help cool things down. You can also stir in a bit of brown sugar or honey to balance the heat. A squeeze of lime juice can also work wonders, just like when you have too much salt.
What are some good toppings for this chilli recipe?
The topping possibilities are endless, really! Think of it like a Sunday roast, everyone has their favourite add-ons. Classic choices include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. A dollop of hot sauce is always welcome for those who like an extra kick. You can even put it on top of chips or add some jalepenos!
Can I make this chilli recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian chilli, simply swap the beef for a mix of your favorite beans (kidney, black, pinto all work well). You can also add extra veggies like corn, squash, or sweet potatoes. For a vegan version, ensure your beef broth is replaced with a vegetable broth. It's a great way to sneak in extra veggies and enjoy a hearty, plant-based meal!
How can I thicken my chilli if it's too watery using this chilli recipe?
A watery chilli is no fun! Try simmering it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the chilli and simmer until thickened. A spoonful of tomato paste also works, adding both thickness and flavour.