Craving a warm, hearty, and delicious meal? Delia Smith’s Chilli Con Carne is a dish that brings comfort in every bite. Packed with rich flavors, tender meat, and just the right amount of spice, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple way to make this classic recipe. It’s easy to follow, full of flavor, and you can even make it vegetarian or cook it in a slow cooker!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You’ll love this Chilli Con Carne because:
- It’s easy to make
- It’s full of flavor
- You can adjust the spice level
- It can be made with ground beef or steak
- It’s great for leftovers
This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make Delia Smith’s Chilli Con Carne for about 6 people:
- 675g (1.5 lbs) braising steak, cut into small cubes (or ground beef for quicker cooking)
- 340g (12 oz) canned black beans (or dried beans soaked overnight)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 medium onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 green chilies, deseeded and chopped (adjust for spice)
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 3 cans chopped tomatoes (400g each)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 40g fresh coriander (cilantro) – half for cooking, half for garnish
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Delia Smith Chilli Con Carne – Step by Step
Follow these steps to make this comforting dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
If using dried beans:
- Soak them in water overnight.
- Drain and boil in fresh water until tender (about 60–90 minutes).
If using canned beans, just drain and rinse them.
Step 2: Cook the Base
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and chilies. Cook on medium heat until soft.
Step 3: Add the Meat
- Add the steak cubes (or ground beef) to the pot.
- Cook until the meat is browned on all sides.
Step 4: Thicken the Mixture
- Stir in the flour. This helps the chili get a nice, thick texture.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes.
- Add the cooked beans, chopped red pepper, and half of the coriander.
- Add a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
- Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- This slow cooking makes the meat tender and the flavors rich.
Step 7: Finish with Freshness
- Just before serving, add lime juice and the rest of the coriander.
- Give it a good stir and taste to adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Make your Chilli Con Carne even better with these tasty sides:
- Steamed Rice – A classic choice that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Tortilla Chips – Add crunch and fun to your plate.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping!
- Fresh Salad – Add a refreshing contrast with a green salad and lime dressing.
- Salsa & Lime Wedges – For extra freshness and a zesty finish.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Don’t rush the browning: Brown meat in small batches so it doesn’t steam.
- Simmer slowly: Low heat and time create the best flavor.
- Customize the spice: Add more chilies if you like it hot—or remove them for mild chili.
- Too thin? Add a little more flour to thicken. Be careful not to overdo it.
- Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based meat or add extra beans, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Always taste before serving: A squeeze of lime or a pinch of salt can improve the taste.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs About Delia Smith’s Chilli Con Carne
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Use fewer green chilies or remove the seeds to make it mild.
Can I use ground beef?
Of course. Ground beef cooks faster and still tastes great.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Just skip the meat and add more beans or vegetables.
How can I store leftovers?
Cool and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meat and onions first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Conclusion
Delia Smith’s Chilli Con Carne isn’t just a recipe—it’s a cozy, feel-good meal that brings people together. With its rich flavors, simple steps, and room for creativity, this dish can become a favorite in your home.
Whether you follow the original version or try your own twist, one thing’s for sure: this Chilli Con Carne will warm your heart and your belly. Enjoy every bite!