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Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne

Chili Con Carne, meaning “chili with meat,” is a spicy, slow-cooked beef stew that originated in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Gordon Ramsay’s version enhances the dish with smoky paprika, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of dark chocolate, giving it a deep, complex flavor that balances heat and richness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup beef stock
  • 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
  • ½ ounce (about 1 tablespoon) dark chocolate (optional, enhances depth)

For Garnish & Serving

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Steamed rice or tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add garlic and bell pepper, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  1. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon.
  2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  3. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and oregano.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

  1. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, mixing well.
  2. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef stock, then stir.
  3. Add kidney beans and sugar (if using), then bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish

  1. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Stir in dark chocolate to enhance the depth of flavor.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Spoon into bowls and garnish with cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
  2. Serve hot with rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread.