Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne Recipe

Mary Berry’s Chilli Con Carne is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy family meal. This version of the classic dish brings together rich, slow-cooked minced beef, tomatoes, and beans, seasoned with a warming blend of spices. The dish is simple to make yet delivers deep, comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it with rice, jacket potatoes, or nachos, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

What is Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

Mary Berry’s Chilli Con Carne is her take on the traditional Mexican-inspired dish that combines minced beef with kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Her version strikes a balance between robust flavors and mild heat, making it family-friendly while still delivering the comforting taste that makes Chilli con carne a favorite around the world.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful: The slow-cooked minced beef absorbs the flavors of the spices and tomatoes, creating a hearty dish.
• Simple ingredients: You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Great for batch cooking: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers or freeze portions for later.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it with rice, over nachos, or in a jacket potato for a satisfying meal.
• Family-friendly: The mild heat makes it perfect for all ages, and you can easily adjust the spice level.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Minced beef (500g): The base of the dish, provides a rich, savory flavor.
• Kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds texture and protein.
• Chopped tomatoes (1 can): Forms the base of the sauce.
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle kick.
• Red bell pepper (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and color.
• Chilli powder (1 tablespoon): For a mild, warming heat.
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Add earthy, warming spices to the dish.
• Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): For a hint of citrusy spice.
• Tomato purée (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Beef stock (250ml): Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the vegetables and beef.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

• Large frying pan or casserole dish for cooking
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Sharp knife and chopping board for preparing vegetables

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté the onions and garlic

• Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or casserole dish over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the beef

• Add the minced beef to the pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned all over.
• Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add the spices and vegetables

• Stir in the chilli powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
• Add the chopped red pepper and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add the tomatoes and stock

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée.
• Pour in the beef stock, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer the chilli

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• This allows the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Add the kidney beans

• After the chilli has simmered, stir in the kidney beans and cook for a further 5-10 minutes until the beans are heated through.

Step 7: Adjust seasoning and serve

• Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve hot with rice, tortilla chips, or over a baked potato.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Steamed rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce.
• Tortilla chips: For a crunchy contrast and perfect for scooping up the chilli.
• Jacket potatoes: Spoon the chilli over a baked potato for a filling meal.
• Sour cream: A cooling contrast to the warm spices.
• Grated cheese: Sprinkle cheddar or mozzarella on top for an extra indulgence.
• Guacamole: The creamy avocado adds a fresh element to the dish.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Cook low and slow: Letting the chilli simmer for a longer time deepens the flavors and thickens the sauce.
• Use good-quality beef: Lean minced beef gives the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the spice: If you prefer a spicier chilli, add more chilli powder or freshly chopped chilli.
• Add a bit of sweetness: A small spoonful of sugar or a dash of balsamic vinegar can balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Don’t rush: Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to develop a rich, flavorful chilli.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Vegetarian option: Swap the minced beef for a plant-based mince or lentils.
• Extra veggies: Add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn for a heartier dish.
• Smoky version: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
• Chilli con carne nachos: Serve the chilli over tortilla chips with melted cheese and jalapeños for a fun twist.
• Spicier version: Add fresh chilli or cayenne pepper if you like more heat.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chilli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Chilli con carne freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat once: Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne

• Stovetop method: Reheat the chilli gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave method: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne Healthier?

• Use lean beef: Choose lean minced beef or swap for ground turkey to reduce fat.
• Increase the veggies: Bulk out the chilli with extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Lower the salt: Use low-sodium beef stock and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
• Add beans: Increase the amount of beans to make the dish higher in fiber and more filling.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 30g

FAQs

Can I freeze Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne?

Yes, Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How can I make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne spicier?

To make this chilli spicier, you can add more chilli powder or fresh chopped chillies. Alternatively, adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika will give the dish a stronger kick.

How do I make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne less spicy?

To make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne less spicy, reduce the amount of Chilli powder or omit it altogether. You can also add more tomatoes, beans, or a splash of cream to mellow the heat and balance the flavors.

Can I make Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the minced beef with plant-based mince or adding more beans and vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra heartiness.

How long does Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne take to cook?

Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne takes around 40-50 minutes to cook, including time to brown the meat, sauté the vegetables, and allow the flavors to develop as it simmers.

Can I use other beans instead of kidney beans in Mary Berry Chilli Con Carne?

Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with other beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Chilli Con Carne is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. With its rich, hearty texture and warming spices, it’s a dish that’s easy to make but delivers big on flavor. Try it today and enjoy the satisfying taste of this classic Chilli!

More By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Mexican Lasagne
• Delia Smith Spaghetti Carbonara
• Jamie Oliver Turkey and Leek Pie
• James Martin Christmas Roast Potatoes

Print