Chili con carne

Chili con carne, which translates to 'chili with meat' in Spanish, is a hearty and spicy stew originating from the Tex-Mex culinary tradition. It is typically made with ground beef, chili peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin and oregano, often simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a protein powerhouse, thanks to the beef and often beans, while also providing a good source of fiber, iron, and B vitamins. A standard serving can range from 250 to 400 calories, depending on the recipe's fat content and whether it's served with toppings like cheese or sour cream.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	20 g
Carbs	15 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	800 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	200 IU
Calcium	80 mg
Zinc	4 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Chili con carne is the official state dish of Texas and is the focus of intense, competitive cook-offs worldwide, where 'chiliheads' debate the strictest definition—some purists insist on no beans. Nutritionally, the capsaicin in chili peppers may give metabolism a temporary boost and contains antioxidants.