Chile Con Carne: Charles Kromas
A hearty, flavorful chili con carne with beef, kidney beans, and spicy chili peppers, perfect for comforting meals and those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Braise suet in a pan or heat vegetable oil in a pan.
- Add chopped garlic, chopped chili pepper, and minced beef; simmer for 1 hour.
- Add salt and ground pepper to taste.
- Add cooked or canned kidney beans and cook until beans are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a milder dish, use less chili pepper or jalapeno. Substitute the suet with vegetable oil for a lighter option. You can also use canned beans to save time, but if using dried beans, ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chile Con Carne with warm tortillas or over steamed rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Rolled Beef Tacos or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh green salad. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices. Consider serving it with cornbread for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Con Carne: Charles Kromas contains roughly 2703 calories, with 31g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 244g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), iron (109% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 558mg per serving (24% 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 dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat. Ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lentils and mushrooms will require less time to cook than beef.
How spicy is this Chile Con Carne?
The spice level depends on the type and amount of chili pepper used. For a milder version, you can use less jalapeno or remove the seeds. For more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a hotter variety of chili.
Can I freeze Chile Con Carne?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it on the stove or in the microwave.
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).