Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. This classic recipe is not only loved by families but also fits perfectly into a healthy eating plan. With its robust flavor profile and satisfying texture, it’s suitable for weeknight dinners or meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy wholesome food without the guilt. The Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne stands out with its lean ingredients and a rich blend of spices that create a deliciously comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fiber, this chilli con carne is both nutritious and filling.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and quick prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your toppings or serve it over rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps for variety.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone will love the rich taste, making it great for family meals.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large casserole dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large casserole dish: Ideal for browning meat and simmering the chilli to perfection.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Chopping board and sharp knife: Essential for efficiently chopping veggies and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

Protein & Legumes

• 500g (17.5oz) of extra lean beef mince
• 400g can of kidney beans, drained

Vegetables

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 large carrot, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 jalapenos, deseeded and chopped (if your jalapenos are small you may want to use a few more)

Liquids & Condiments

• 800g (28oz) of chopped tomatoes, canned
• 10.5 tablespoons (156ml) of tomato paste (puree)
• 3 cups (720ml) of beef stock
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar

Spices & Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons of paprika
• 2 teaspoons of cumin
• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper – optional (omit if you don’t like too spicy)
• 1 teaspoon of oregano

Cooking Essentials

• Olive oil spray

How to Make Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Heat the Casserole Dish

Spray a large casserole dish over medium-high heat with some olive oil spray.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the mince, onion, and garlic into the casserole dish. Fry until browned.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the carrots to the dish and fry for an additional few minutes until softened.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Incorporate the spices, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper, jalapenos, balsamic vinegar, and stock. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Chilli

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add in kidney beans. Cover and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour until sauce has reduced and thickened. Ensure it lightly bubbles during cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Serve topped with your choice of toppings such as fresh herbs or avocado slices.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig in and savor every bite of your Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne!

How to Serve Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

Serving Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne is simple and can be tailored to suit everyone’s taste. This dish pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides, making it not only versatile but also a family favorite.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese enhances flavor and richness.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby note that brightens the dish.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s bold flavors.
• Chopped Green Onions: Offers a mild onion flavor and crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: Serve on a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal.
• With Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy contrast, pair with crispy chips.
• In Tacos: Use as a filling in soft or hard taco shells for fun handheld bites.
• With Cornbread: A slice of cornbread makes for hearty comfort food.

How to Perfect Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

To elevate your chili con carne experience, consider these tips that will make your dish even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos according to your preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer: For deeper flavors, let it cook longer on low heat, allowing spices to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your chili con carne can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s sauce.
2. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as an excellent base for your chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and a cool contrast to the spice.
4. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots add color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
5. Salad: A crisp green salad provides freshness and crunch alongside the hearty chili.
6. Baked Potatoes: Serve chili over baked potatoes for a comforting twist on this classic dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes ensures it turns out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat and onions properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always ensure they are browned before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring spice measurements: Using too much or too little spice can alter the taste significantly. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing the cooking time can result in a watery texture. Allow your chilli to simmer until it thickens, which enhances flavor.
• Overlooking ingredient prep: Failing to chop vegetables finely may lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to prepare all ingredients as directed for even texture and flavor.
• Serving without toppings: Enjoying chilli without toppings can miss out on added flavors and textures. Consider serving with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra delight.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne:

Can I make this chilli vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the beef mince with lentils or beans for a vegetarian version that still packs great flavor.

How spicy is this chilli?

The recipe includes jalapenos and optional cayenne pepper. For milder chilli, omit these spices or reduce their quantities.

Can I use different beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans according to your preference.

What toppings go well with this chilli?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Customize based on your taste!

How can I make it healthier?

Consider using less oil, skipping high-calorie toppings, or adding more vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Slimming Friendly Chilli Con Carne is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding extra veggies. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner—give it a try today!