Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is the perfect comfort food – rich, hearty, and packed with layers of flavor that only get better with time. It offers a warming experience on cold nights, ideal for anyone seeking a delicious, hands-off meal that delivers big, bold taste.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together tender beef, beans, and a myriad of spices simmered for hours to create a deep, rich flavor profile. It’s a twist on the classic chili con carne recipe, using slow-cooking methods to allow the ingredients to meld together, ensuring each bite is bursting with savory goodness. Unlike quick-cooked versions, this one allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a more tender and satisfying dish.

The slow-cooking technique ensures that the beef breaks down into perfect, melt-in-your-mouth bites, while the tomato base simmers and infuses all the spices, creating a delicious, complex depth of flavor. It’s the perfect dish for gatherings or meal prepping, as it can be made in large batches and served with a variety of sides, from rice to cornbread.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Olive oil (for frying)
• Beef (either stewing beef or minced beef works, but stewing beef gives a more tender and juicy result)
• Onions (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (diced)
• Celery (diced)
• Red and green bell peppers (chopped)
• Chili peppers (for that extra kick)
• Canned chopped tomatoes (the base of your sauce)
• Tomato purée (adds richness)
• Red kidney beans (or black beans, depending on your preference)
• Beef stock (or vegetable stock for a lighter version)
• Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and a pinch of cayenne pepper
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Lime wedges (to serve for a zesty finish)
• Sour cream (optional for a creamy touch)

These ingredients bring together a balanced mixture of sweetness, heat, and umami that gives the chilli its deep flavor profile.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Large pan or skillet – For browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
2. Slow cooker – The magic tool that allows the flavors to develop over time. If you don’t have one, you can use a large pot and cook it slowly on the stovetop or in the oven.
3. Wooden spoon – For stirring and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom.
4. Chopping board and knife – For preparing the veggies and beef.
5. Can opener – For opening the canned tomatoes and beans.
6. Ladle – For serving the chilli.
7. Measuring spoons – To ensure accurate spice measurements.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne?

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • Start by finely chopping the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Slice the chili peppers for an extra kick.
   • Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes if you’re using stewing beef. Otherwise, you can skip this step if you’re using minced beef.

2. Brown The Meat

   • In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef (or minced beef) and brown it on all sides. This step helps to build a rich flavor base.
   • Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell peppers for about 10 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.

4. Add The Spices

   • Stir in your spices – cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper. Let them toast for 1-2 minutes to bring out their full flavors.

5. Combine And Simmer

   • Return the beef to the pan and add the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, and beef stock. Bring everything to a simmer.
   • Pour everything into your slow cooker, or if you’re using a pot, simply reduce the heat and cover it. Let it cook for 4-6 hours on low heat in the slow cooker or about 2-3 hours on a low simmer in a pot.

6. Add The Beans

   • About 30 minutes before the chili is done, add the red kidney beans. This gives them enough time to heat through and soak in some of the flavor.

7. Finishing Touches

   • Once the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
   • Serve the chilli with a sprinkle of fresh coriander, a wedge of lime, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. This will add freshness and creaminess to balance the spice.

Expert Tips

1. Slow Cooking is Key:
   For the best flavor, don’t rush the slow-cooking process. Allow the chili to simmer low and slow, which helps tenderize the meat and meld all the flavors together.

2. Use Quality Meat:
   Whether you use minced beef or stewing beef, the quality of your meat can make a big difference. For a more tender chili, use beef that has a good amount of marbling, such as chuck or brisket.

3. Customize the Heat:
   Adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less chili peppers or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder chili, you can remove the seeds from the peppers before adding them to the dish.

4. Double the Recipe:
   Chilli con carne is great for meal prep!

   It freezes well, so feel free to make a larger batch and store leftovers for future meals.

5. Top with Extras:
   Add some shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices to your chili for extra texture and flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is a masterpiece in the world of comfort food. Its rich, savory depth of flavor, combined with the melt-in-your-mouth beef and aromatic spices, makes it the ultimate dish for both cozy weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

By taking your time with the cooking process, you unlock layers of flavor that will surely satisfy any chili lover. Whether served with rice, cornbread, or just enjoyed on its own, this recipe is a surefire way to bring warmth and joy to any meal.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is already a flavor-packed dish on its own, but you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. Here are a few easy variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

   Swap out the meat for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, along with some lentils or beans for protein. You can also use plant-based mince if you’re craving the texture of meat but want to keep it vegetarian. This version still captures the rich flavors of the spices and the slow-cooked essence, but with a lighter and more plant-forward twist.

2. Spicy Chilli Con Carne

   If you love heat, you can increase the spiciness by adding extra chili peppers. Consider using fresh jalapeños, serrano peppers, or even a splash of hot sauce. Adding dried chipotle or ancho chilies will not only kick up the heat but also add a smoky depth of flavor.

3. Chilli with Chocolate

   This variation is perfect if you’re looking for a slightly sweet and complex flavor. Stir in a small amount of dark chocolate (about 70% cacao) near the end of the cooking process. The chocolate will melt into the sauce, adding richness and a subtle sweetness that balances the heat of the chili.

4. Chilli Con Carne with Beer

   For a hearty and malty flavor, replace part of the liquid with a good-quality beer. Stout, porter, or a rich ale can bring an extra layer of depth to the dish, while also tenderizing the meat even further as it simmers.

5. Chilli with Sweet Potatoes

   Sweet potatoes are a wonderful addition for a heartier, slightly sweet contrast to the spicy chili. Cube some sweet potatoes and add them to the slow cooker. As they cook, they will become soft and sweet, complementing the spicy, savory flavors of the dish.

6. Keto-Friendly Chilli

   For a low-carb version, substitute the beans for cauliflower florets, which absorb the flavors of the chili sauce beautifully. You could also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to make the dish leaner while still satisfying your cravings.

These variations offer just a glimpse of the endless possibilities for customizing your chilli con carne. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your spices, protein, or vegetables, depending on what you have available or what your preferences are!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Chilli Con Carne, like most stews and casseroles, actually improves in flavor the next day as the spices continue to develop. Here’s how you can store your leftovers properly to keep them fresh and tasty:

1. Cool It Quickly

   After cooking, let the chilli cool down to room temperature before storing it. Avoid leaving it out for more than two hours to prevent any bacteria growth. You can speed up the cooling process by transferring the chilli into shallow containers to help it cool more evenly and quickly.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   Store leftover chilli in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent it from absorbing unwanted odors in the fridge. Glass containers are a great option because they are non-reactive and will not affect the flavor, but plastic containers are also fine as long as they are BPA-free.

3. Refrigeration

   Leftover chilli can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you know you won’t finish it in that time, it’s better to freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure the chilli is completely cooled before placing it in the fridge to avoid raising the temperature inside the fridge and affecting other stored food.

4. Freezing Leftovers

   If you want to extend the shelf life of your chilli, freezing is the best option. Portion the chilli into smaller portions before freezing to make it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.

   You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for quicker results.

5. Reheating Tips

   When reheating chilli, it’s best to do so on the stove over medium heat for even warming. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water, broth, or extra sauce to bring back its original consistency if it has thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be sure to stir every minute to heat it evenly.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your leftovers remain as delicious as the day they were made!

What Goes Well With Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne?

Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is a robust and flavorful dish, and there are numerous ways to complement it with side dishes, toppings, and drinks to make a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Rice

   A classic pairing is serving your chilli over a bed of fluffy rice. White rice, brown rice, or even basmati rice can soak up the sauce and offer a nice texture contrast to the rich and spicy chilli. For a twist, you can also try it with coconut rice or cilantro-lime rice for a burst of fresh flavor.

2. Cornbread

   Cornbread, whether baked or in muffin form, pairs wonderfully with chilli. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture balances out the heat of the chilli. You can even crumble the cornbread on top for a fun texture addition.

3. Tortilla Chips

   Tortilla chips or nachos make for a crunchy and salty contrast to the smooth chilli. You can use them to scoop up the chilli or create a full nacho dish by layering chips with cheese, then baking them with a spoonful of chilli on top.

4. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

   A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is a perfect way to cool down the heat of the chilli. It adds creaminess and tang, which balances the spiciness of the dish.

5. Cheese

   Grated cheddar, Monterey Jack, or crumbled queso fresco make excellent toppings for your chilli. As the cheese melts into the warm dish, it creates a rich, gooey texture that complements the hearty sauce.

6. Pickled Jalapeños

   For those who love extra spice, pickled jalapeños offer a sharp, tangy contrast to the chili. Their acidity helps cut through the richness of the dish and adds another layer of flavor.

7. Avocado

   Creamy avocado slices or guacamole are fantastic additions. They not only bring freshness to the meal but also provide a cooling element to balance out the heat of the chilli.

8. A Cold Drink

   A cold beverage like a crisp beer, a chilled glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or even a tangy lemonade can refresh your palate between bites. If you’re avoiding alcohol, sparkling water with a wedge of lime or an iced tea can do wonders too.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to personalize and adapt to different dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you’re switching up the protein, adding heat, or going vegetarian, the slow-cooked depth of flavors makes it a dish everyone will enjoy.

Don’t forget to store your leftovers properly for maximum freshness, and complement your chilli with sides like rice, cornbread, or avocado to elevate the meal. With these simple variations and serving suggestions, you can make every bowl of chilli a unique experience, perfect for any occasion!.

FAQs

What Cut Of Beef Does Jamie Oliver Recommend For His Slow Cooked Chilli Con Carne?

Jamie Oliver typically uses beef brisket or stewing steak for his slow cooked chilli con carne. These cuts are ideal because they become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow over several hours.

How Long Should The Chilli Con Carne Be Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

When using a slow cooker, Jamie Oliver recommends cooking the chilli con carne on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours to allow the meat to become tender and the flavors to fully develop.

What Spices Are Essential In Jamie Oliver’s Chilli Con Carne?

Key spices include ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, cinnamon, and chilli powder. These spices create a deep, complex flavor profile that’s central to the dish.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chilli Con Carne Vegetarian?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe by replacing the beef with a combination of lentils, beans (like kidney and black beans), and chopped vegetables such as sweet potato or butternut squash. Jamie often promotes flexible, plant-based cooking options.

What Type Of Beans Does Jamie Oliver Use In His Chilli Con Carne?

Jamie typically uses kidney beans, but he also suggests adding black beans or pinto beans for variety. The beans are usually canned and added toward the end of cooking to maintain their texture.

Does Jamie Oliver Add Chocolate To His Chilli Con Carne?

Yes, a small amount of dark chocolate (usually 70% cocoa or higher) is often stirred in at the end of cooking to enrich the sauce and add a subtle depth of flavor without making the dish sweet.

What Are The Best Accompaniments To Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Chilli Con Carne?

Jamie recommends serving it with fluffy rice, a dollop of sour cream or natural yogurt, grated cheese, fresh coriander, and lime wedges. You can also pair it with tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Can The Chilli Con Carne Be Frozen For Later Use?

Absolutely. Jamie’s chilli con carne freezes very well.

Allow it to cool completely before portioning into airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How Can I Adjust The Heat Level Of Jamie Oliver’s Chilli Con Carne?

To make it milder, use less chilli powder or substitute with a mild paprika. For more heat, Jamie suggests adding fresh red chillies or an extra pinch of cayenne pepper.

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Chilli Con Carne Unique Compared To Other Recipes?

Jamie’s version stands out due to its slow-cooked method using quality meat cuts, a rich blend of spices, and thoughtful additions like dark chocolate and fresh herbs. His approach emphasizes both comfort and bold flavor.