Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serves: 6 people
Delia Smith is known for making simple food taste amazing, and her Chilli Con Carne recipe is no exception. It’s a perfect dish for cold days, family dinners, or whenever you want something hearty and comforting. This dish combines tender meat, soft beans, and just the right spices to make your mouth water.
In this article, you’ll learn how to cook this classic recipe in an easy, step-by-step way. Whether you’re a beginner or a kitchen pro, you’ll find this recipe simple and satisfying.
Why This Chilli Con Carne Recipe is So Popular
- ✅ Simple ingredients you can find anywhere
- ✅ Easy steps that anyone can follow
- ✅ Customizable — add more spice, go vegetarian, or use ground beef
- ✅ Great for freezing and leftovers
- ✅ Full of flavor and texture
Ingredients You Will Need
Here is the complete list of ingredients for Delia Smith’s chilli, written in clear and simple terms:
- 675g (1.5 lbs) braising steak, cut into small chunks
- 340g (12 oz) black beans, canned or soaked and cooked
- 40g (1.5 oz) fresh coriander, chopped (save some for garnish)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 medium onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 green chilies, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 heaped tablespoon plain flour
- 3 cans chopped tomatoes (400g each)
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
🥣 Step 1: Prepare the Beans (If Using Dried)
If you are using dried black beans, soak them overnight in cold water.
Drain and simmer in fresh water until soft (about 60–90 minutes). Skip this step if using canned beans.
🔥 Step 2: Cook the Base
Heat the olive oil in a large pan.
Add onions, garlic, and green chilies. Cook until soft and golden.
🥩 Step 3: Add the Meat
Add steak pieces to the pan.
Cook until browned on all sides.
🌶️ Step 4: Add Flour and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in the flour and mix well.
Now add the chopped tomatoes and bring everything to a gentle boil.
🫘 Step 5: Add Beans and Vegetables
Stir in cooked black beans and chopped red pepper.
Add half of the coriander and season with salt.
🍲 Step 6: Simmer Slowly
Cover the pan, reduce the heat, and simmer for 1.5 hours.
Stir now and then so it doesn’t stick.
🍋 Step 7: Add Lime and Garnish
Before serving, mix in lime juice and the rest of the coriander.
Serving Ideas
Make your chilli even better with these side ideas:
- Steamed rice (white or brown)
- Warm crusty bread
- Tortilla chips
- Fresh green salad with lime dressing
- Lime wedges for extra zing
- Sliced red onions or tomato salsa on top
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Don’t crowd the pan when browning meat — this helps get a better color and taste.
- Use canned beans if you’re in a hurry, but cooked dried beans give a better texture.
- Adjust the spice level by changing the number of chilies.
- Want it thicker? Add a little more flour but not too much.
- For more flavor, let it simmer longer at low heat.
- Make it vegetarian by using mushrooms, zucchini, or extra beans.
- Taste and adjust salt and lime before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes! Ground beef works well and cooks faster. Brown it just like the steak.
❓ Can I make it without meat?
Absolutely. Add more beans and vegetables instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian version.
❓ How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
❓ Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meat and sautéing the onions, add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Conclusion
This Delia Smith-inspired Chilli Con Carne is warm, rich, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or just when you need a comforting bowl of goodness. Take your time with the simmering — that’s where the magic happens!
Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite.
For more recipes and home cooking tips, visit thisolderhouse— your trusted source for food, lifestyle, and property content.
