Arizona Chili Con Carne Y Frijoles
A hearty Arizona-style chili con carne with tender beef, flavorful spices, and beans, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for spice lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort the pinto beans, removing any stones or dirt clods, then soak them thoroughly.
- Heat some oil in a large pot and brown the stew beef until well seared.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add stewed tomatoes or fresh chopped tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir in the green chilies, jalapenos, or serranos depending on desired heat level.
- Mix in oregano, cilantro, cumin, and salt.
- Pour in the dry sherry and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer, covered, for about 1-2 hours until beans and beef are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water when simmering the chili. If pinto beans are unavailable, you can substitute them with black beans or kidney beans. Adjust the heat by choosing milder or spicier peppers based on your preference. To save time, canned beans can be used, but be sure to rinse them well before adding to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with warm cornbread or over cooked rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with El Wifeo'S Lasagna Mexicano for a festive gathering or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arizona Chili Con Carne Y Frijoles contains roughly 498 calories, with 27g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (350% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (124% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add all ingredients, including soaked beans, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beans and beef are tender. Adjust seasoning before serving.
What can I serve with Arizona Chili Con Carne Y Frijoles?
This chili is delicious on its own but is also great with sides like warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with Mexican recipes such as Taco Salads or Meaty Mexican Cornbread.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to create a thicker consistency or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).