Chilli con carne, a classic Mexican favorite, gets a healthy twist in this nutritious recipe. Packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and wholesome ingredients, this healthy chili con carne is not only delicious but also a perfect addition to your balanced diet. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this hearty and nutritious dish.
Chilli Con Carne Recipe
Equipment
- 1 lb Lean ground beef
- 1 Large onion Diced
- 1 Red bell pepper Chopped
- 2 Garlic cloves Minced
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
- Salt and pepper as per taste
- 1 can (14 oz) Diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) Black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) Kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
- Greek Yogurt for topping optional
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients to streamline your cooking process.
- Cook the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Ensure there are no pink bits.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Add Veggies: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the pepper is tender.
- Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Away: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check and Adjust: Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the healthy chilli con carne into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.
- Enjoy: Grab a spoon and relish in the wholesome goodness of your healthy chilli con carne.
Notes
- Lean Option: Opt for ground turkey or chicken for an even leaner version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance.
- Toppings: Experiment with toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, Greek Yogurt or a squeeze of lime.
Conclusion
This healthy Chilli Con Carne recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish while prioritizing your well-being. Give it a try and savor the goodness in every spoonful.
Is Chilli Con Carne a Nutritious Choice?
Absolutely! Chilli con carne, when prepared with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and beans, becomes a nutritious powerhouse. It’s rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, offering a well-rounded meal that supports your overall health.
What to Serve with Healthy Chilli Con Carne?
Pair your healthy chilli con carne with options that complement its robust flavors. Consider serving it over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Top it with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a handful of shredded cheese for an extra burst of taste.
Is Chilli Con Carne a Healthy Choice?
Chilli Con Carne can be a nutritious choice, as it contains protein from lean meat, fiber from beans, and various vitamins. However, it’s essential to moderate portion sizes and choose lean ingredients for a balanced and healthy meal.
Is Chilli Con Carne comes in Keto?
Chilli Con Carne can be adapted to fit a keto (ketogenic) diet by making some modifications. To make it keto-friendly, you can use lean ground meat, incorporate low-carb vegetables, and reduce or eliminate high-carb ingredients like beans. Additionally, choosing keto-approved spices and seasonings is crucial.
Is Chilli Con Carne gluten free?
Chilli Con Carne can be gluten-free if prepared with gluten-free ingredients. The traditional recipe typically includes ingredients like ground meat, tomatoes, beans, and spices, which are naturally gluten-free.