Chili Con Carne

Chili con Carne is not a difficult dish to prepare, but because of its many ingredients, there are numerous places where mistakes can be made. These range from which meat to use, how to identify good chili peppers, understanding the role of beans in the recipe, attempting to cook it too quickly, not knowing the correct spices to use, not properly sautéing the onions and garlic, and much more. The key to a great Chili con Carne is time. Let it develop the depth of flavors by patiently simmering away, allowing the spices and ingredients to come together. The common mistake is not simmering it long enough or on the right heat. One of the main things to consider when cooking Chili con Carne is the genre of chili powder you use. Many people opt for store-bought chili powder but making your own allows for more versatility and depth of flavor. Regarding beans, there's a constant debate to bean or not to bean. Some believe a true chili doesn't include beans, while others feel beans add nutrition and substance. Ultimately, it's your personal preference. A little-known tip is to add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or some dark chocolate. This balances the intense flavors and adds a certain richness to the dish.