Chilli Con Carne

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 red pepper, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 heaped tsp hot chilli powder (or 1 level tbsp if mild)

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 500g lean minced beef

• 1 beef stock cube

• 400g can chopped tomatoes

• ½ tsp dried marjoram

• 1 tsp sugar (or a small piece of dark chocolate)

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 410g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• To serve: boiled long grain rice, soured cream

Simplified Method:

1. Heat oil in a large pan. Soften onion for 5 mins.

2. Add garlic, red pepper, chilli powder, paprika + cumin. Cook 5 mins.

3. Brown mince over high heat until no pink remains.

4. Mix stock cube into 300ml hot water. Pour into pan.

5. Add chopped tomatoes, marjoram, sugar (or choc), tomato purée, salt + pepper. Stir well.

6. Bring to boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer with lid on. Cook 20 mins.

7. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add water if it starts to dry.

8. Add beans and simmer uncovered for 10 more mins.

9. Season to taste, then rest for 10 mins with lid on before serving.

To Serve With:

• Boiled long grain rice

• Soured cream

• Crushed tortilla chips or grated cheese (optional)

• Steamed corn or a simple side salad