Mary Berry, a household name in the world of baking and cooking, brings her signature touch of simplicity and elegance to every dish she creates.
Her version of Chilli Con Carne is no exception, offering a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Berry’s approach to this classic dish incorporates a blend of spices, quality meat, and a variety of textures, making it a standout recipe that’s both easy to make and delicious.
What is Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Chilli Con Carne, which translates to “chili with meat,” is a spicy stew containing chili peppers, beef, tomatoes, and beans.
Mary Berry’s rendition of this beloved dish features a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory flavors, achieved through a carefully selected mix of ingredients and spices.
Her version often includes unique touches that elevate the dish, such as the addition of chocolate or cinnamon to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
What Goes Best with Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Mary Berry’s Chilli Con Carne pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. Traditional accompaniments include steamed rice, tortilla chips, or warm flatbreads.
For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the chili. Garnishes such as sour cream, grated cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro also go well, allowing diners to customize their bowl to their taste.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust according to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 can (14 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef stock
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Optional: dark chocolate (a small piece), to enhance the sauce
How to Prepare Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
2. Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon (if using), cooking for a minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef stock. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the chili simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes. If using, add the piece of dark chocolate at this stage, stirring until melted and combined.
6. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
How to Serve Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Ladle the chili into bowls, and serve hot with your choice of sides. Offer garnishes separately so everyone can customize their serving according to their preferences.
How to Reheat Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Microwave: Place the chili in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Oven: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot throughout.
Stovetop: Warm the chili over medium heat in a pot, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until heated through.
How to Store Leftovers of Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Cool the chili completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative or extra beans and vegetables.
Is it gluten-free?
This chili can be made gluten-free by ensuring all canned products and stock are labeled as such.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add corn, zucchini, or other vegetables to the chili.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne (approximately 1 cup) typically contains:
Calories: 250-350 kcal
Protein: 20-25 g
Fat: 10-15 g
Saturated Fat: 3-5 g
Carbohydrates: 20-30 g
Dietary Fiber: 5-7 g
Sugars: 5-10 g (primarily from tomatoes and bell pepper)
Sodium: 500-700 mg (can vary based on the canned products and stock used)
This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, especially if lean ground beef is used and plenty of beans and vegetables are added.
The optional addition of dark chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also adds antioxidants to the dish.
Mary Berry’s Chilli Con Carne is a testament to her ability to transform simple ingredients into a comforting and nourishing meal.
It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week.
With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and the comforting warmth it provides, this chili is sure to become a beloved staple in any recipe collection.
