As the crisp autumn air sweeps in, I find myself craving the rich, heartwarming flavors of a classic dish—Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne. This recipe is my go-to for both cozy family nights and casual gatherings with friends. With its robust spices and perfectly tender beef, this chilli effortlessly blends comfort with a touch of culinary flair. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it a versatile option for those busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need something satisfying at the end of a long day, this dish feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Curious how to whip up this savory delight and bring a little warmth to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Chilli Con Carne Special?
Comfort Food Redefined: This Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne is the ultimate cozy dish, warming you from the inside out on chilly nights.
High Protein & Flavor Packed: Bolstered by lean ground beef and hearty beans, this recipe ensures you stay full without sacrificing taste.
Flexible & Adaptable: Whether you’re in the mood for extra spice or a milder version, this recipe allows for endless customization, similar to my Coconut Crusted Salmon or the delicious Coconut Broth Clams.
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking, making it perfect for busy weeks ahead, as flavors deepen and improve with time.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends, this dish is sure to impress your guests, earning you culinary accolades!
Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne Ingredients
For the Chilli
• Lean Ground Beef (500 g) – This rich source of protein is the backbone of your hearty chilli.
• Onions (2 medium, finely chopped) – Choose yellow onions for a sweet, caramelized flavor that balances the spice.
• Garlic (2 cloves, crushed or minced) – Fresh garlic elevates the aroma, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
• Fresh Red Chillies (1-2, finely chopped) – For a kick of heat; remove seeds if you prefer a milder dish.
• Chili Powder (1 teaspoon, mild or hot) – This adds vibrant color and depth of flavor; feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon) – A warm spice that complements the beef, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon) – Adds a citrusy note, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors.
• Plain Flour (1 tablespoon) – Thickens the sauce beautifully; substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Dry Red Wine (150 ml, optional) – Offers richness and acidity; skip if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
• Beef Stock (300 ml) – The flavorful base that brings everything together; opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
• Chopped Tomatoes (1 can, 400 g) – Provides moisture and forms the sauce’s foundation, making it rich and saucy.
• Tomato Purée (2 tablespoons) – Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce for a robust finish.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Adds a hint of herbaceousness, heightening the comfort food experience.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Helps balance the acidity of tomatoes; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Kidney Beans (1 can, 400 g, drained and rinsed) – Serves as a source of texture and protein; black beans or lentils can work too.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the overall flavor—always adjust according to your taste!
• Fresh Coriander – Use as a garnish for a fresh touch that brightens the dish.
Bringing the warmth of the Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne into your kitchen is just a few ingredients away!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the 500 g of lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, ensuring there are no large chunks remaining. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean and flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan with the beef and sauté for about 5 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. Next, stir in 2 cloves of crushed garlic and 1-2 finely chopped fresh red chillies. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen and the chillies to infuse their heat into the mixture.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices, allowing them to toast for about 1 minute. You should start to smell the fragrant spices develop, which enhances the savory profile of your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour
Next, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of plain flour. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flour to absorb the juices and enhance the thickness of the sauce. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, hearty texture for your chilli.
Step 5: Pour in Liquids
Slowly add 150 ml of dry red wine to the pan, allowing it to bubble and deglaze the bottom. After a minute of stirring, mix in 300 ml of beef stock, 400 g of chopped tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of tomato purée. The combination will create a rich, robust base for your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, a teaspoon of sugar, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become tender.
Step 7: Final Steps
After simmering, stir in the drained and rinsed 400 g of kidney beans. Leave the lid off and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the beans to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring every bite of your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne is perfectly balanced before serving.
Make Ahead Options
This Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne is a superb choice for make-ahead meal prep! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to let them cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. Additionally, the entire chilli can be fully cooked and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop even further. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat until bubbling, stirring occasionally to maintain its rich consistency. This approach not only saves time on busy weeknights but also guarantees delicious, comforting meals that are just as good, if not better, than when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne
Fridge: Store leftover Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen while keeping it fresh and delicious.
Freezer: Freeze the chilli in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne a day ahead. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prep!
Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne Variations
Get ready to customize your Chilli Con Carne and bring your own unique flair to this beloved classic!
- Turkey Swap: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter yet equally delicious option. It’s a wonderful way to indulge without the extra calories.
- Smoky Flavor: Replace chili powder with smoked paprika for a deeper, richer taste. This adds a beautiful dimension that pairs beautifully with the meat.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute ground beef with an equal amount of lentils or black beans. This gives you a hearty, plant-based option that’s full of flavor without sacrificing the comforting essence of chilli.
- Beans Galore: Mix in different types of beans, like pinto or cannellini, for various textures. Each bean offers a unique twist on the traditional recipe that your family will love.
- Extra Spice: Want to turn up the heat? Add more fresh chillies or introduce cayenne pepper for an added kick. This is perfect for spice lovers eager for bold flavors!
- Herb Infusion: Try including fresh herbs like thyme or a pinch of smoked chipotle for a distinct and delightful taste. This will elevate your chilli to new aromatic heights!
- Chocolate Addition: For an unexpected depth, stir in a square of dark chocolate at the end of cooking. This brings a beautiful richness that ties all the flavors together.
- Coconut Delight: Swap out half the beef stock for coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist. This offers a surprisingly delicious flavor contrast perfect for adventurous eaters.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect bowl of Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne! Whether you stick to the original or venture to new flavors, it’s sure to warm souls just like my Coconut Crusted Salmon or the flavorful Coconut Broth Clams. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne
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Simmer Longer: Extend the simmer time to 90 minutes for even more tender meat and flavors that really meld. Patience pays off!
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Chocolate Depth: Try adding a small square of dark chocolate during the final minutes of cooking to elevate and deepen the flavor profile of your chilli.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by varying the amount of fresh chillies. If you prefer milder flavours, remove the seeds before chopping.
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Perfect Thickness: If your chilli is too thin, simmer it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate, creating a beautifully thick sauce.
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Bean Variations: Feel free to substitute kidney beans with black beans or lentils for different textures and tastes, ensuring your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne is always exciting!
What to Serve with Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne
Enjoying a bowl of hearty chilli is made even better with the perfect accompaniments to complete your dinner spread.
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Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy rice soaks up the savory sauce, creating a delightful harmony of textures and flavors.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and satisfying, these chips add a fun element to your meal. Dip them right in the chilli for an extra layer of enjoyment!
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Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up the delicious sauce, a warm loaf of crusty bread enhances the comforting vibe of your meal.
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Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, guacamole balances the heat of the chilli, adding a zesty twist that elevates every bite.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn on the cob provides a refreshing and sweet contrast to the spicy, savory chilli.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Bright and fragrant, this rice dish complements the chilli’s robust flavors while introducing a refreshing zing.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings a cool creaminess that beautifully cuts through the spice of the dish, providing that perfect balance.
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A Cold Beer: Pair your chilli with a cold beer to refresh your palate and enhance the overall experience of this rich, savory meal.
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, indulge in rich chocolate brownies that offer a sweet, decadent finish to round out your comfort food feast.
Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for this recipe?
When selecting ground beef for your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne, opt for lean beef (around 80/20 or 90/10) to achieve a satisfying flavor without excessive greasiness. Look for meat that is bright red with minimal dark spots. Fresh beef should have a firm texture, and if you press it gently, it should bounce back.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your leftover Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further as they rest. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation, which can affect texture.
Can I freeze Chilli Con Carne, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne, allow it to cool completely. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, trying to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What should I do if my chilli is too watery?
If you find your Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne is too watery, don’t worry! Simply remove the lid and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow excess liquid to evaporate and thicken the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the flavors concentrate.
Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This recipe is flexible! For those avoiding gluten, substitute the plain flour with cornstarch mixed with a little water. If you have dairy allergies, this recipe is naturally dairy-free. For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with an equal amount of lentils or cooked beans. Always check your ingredients for any hidden allergens that might impact your health.
Savory Hairy Bikers Chilli Con Carne for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef, breaking apart. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and red chillies; cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Stir well to coat and toast for 1 minute.
- Add plain flour, stir, and cook for another minute to absorb juices.
- Slowly add dry red wine, stir to deglaze. Mix in beef stock, chopped tomatoes, and tomato purée.
- Add oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for at least 45 minutes.
- Stir in kidney beans. Cook uncovered for another 10-15 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
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