Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Chilli Con Carne Recipe
Short on time but want something delicious and comforting? Then this gluten-free chilli con carne recipe is perfect for you.
Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick to whip up and delicious? Look no further than my gluten-free chilli con carne recipe.
It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy in various ways. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is about to become your new favourite!
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses convenient tinned ingredients for a fuss-free meal
- Freezes well, making it great for meal prep
- Versatile enough to serve with rice, jacket potatoes, or tortilla chips
- Packed with flavour from a blend of aromatic spices
Ingredients
Beef: You’ll need 500g of grass-fed beef mince. This forms the hearty base of our chilli.
Tomatoes: We’re using a 400g tin of tomatoes and a 480g jar of tomato and roasted vegetable pasta sauce. These give our chilli a rich, tomatoey flavour.
Beans: A 400g tin of kidney beans in chilli sauce adds texture and extra spice to the dish.
Spices: We’ll use a mix of cinnamon, coriander, cumin, and cardamom pods. These spices give our chilli its distinctive flavour.
Extras: You’ll also need tomato puree and sweet chilli sauce to round out the flavours.
Instructions
Start by frying the beef in a large, heavy-based pan. Cook it for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. This ensures it cooks evenly.
Next, add all the spices and stir them in well. This helps to release their flavours and infuse the meat.
Now, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Pour in the tinned tomatoes, pasta sauce, tomato puree, kidney beans, and sweet chilli sauce. Give everything a good stir.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
If you’re serving with rice, now’s the time to cook it. Start boiling your rice while the chilli simmers.
What to serve with gluten-free chilli con carne
Who says chilli con carne only goes with rice? Try these serving ideas:
- The Classic: For the cleanest chilli taste, serve your chilli over a bed of fluffy basmati rice.
- Jacket Potato Perfection: Spoon your chilli over a piping hot jacket potato. It’s pure comfort food, especially on those chilly evenings (it is our personal tradition to have chilli and jacket potatoes on Bonfire night!).
- Nacho Night: Transform your chilli into a crowd-pleasing nacho dish. Layer gluten-free tortilla chips with the chilli, sprinkle with cheese, and grill until melty. Top with guacamole and sour cream for a real treat.
- Cauli Rice Delight: For a lower-carb option, serve your chilli over cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to sneak in an extra portion of veg!
- Loaded Sweet Potato Boats: Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise and roast until tender. Fill with the chilli and top with a dollop of sour cream and fresh coriander. This adds a nutritious twist and makes for a colourful, Instagram-worthy meal.
- Chilli Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the chilli con carne. Sprinkle with cheese and bake until the peppers are soft and the cheese is melted. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in extra vegetables!
- Chilli Shepherd’s Pie: Top the chilli with creamy mashed potatoes and bake until golden.
- Breakfast Chilli Bowl: Serve a smaller portion over a crispy fried egg with some gluten-free toast on the side. Who says chilli is just for dinner?
What more can I say – try it!
Gluten-free chilli con carne variations
I’m always excited to share new twists on classic dishes. Here’s how we can spice up this chilli:
Protein Variations
For my veggie friends or those looking to reduce their meat intake, try these protein swaps:
- Lentil Lover’s Delight: Replace the beef mince with green or brown lentils. They’re packed with protein and fibre, and they soak up all those lovely spices beautifully. I often use 250g of dried lentils, rinsed and cooked separately before adding to the chilli.
- Quorn Quandary: Quorn mince is a brilliant gluten-free alternative. Use it just as you would beef mince, but remember it doesn’t need as long to cook. I usually add it about 10 minutes before the end of cooking time.
- Bean Bonanza: For a hearty, protein-packed vegetarian version, try using a mix of beans. I love combining kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. Use about 600g in total, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that even meat-eaters will enjoy.
Flavour Twists
Let’s talk about adding some extra oomph to our chilli:
- Smoky Sensation: Add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavour. It’s like adding a touch of bonfire night to your bowl!
- Chocolate Surprise: This might sound odd, but trust me – adding a square or two of dark chocolate (make sure it’s gluten-free!) near the end of cooking adds a rich depth to the chilli. It’s a trick I learned from my gran, and it’s a game-changer.
- Heat it Up: If you’re a spice lover like me, try adding a finely chopped fresh chilli or two. I’m partial to bird’s eye chillies for a real kick, but adjust according to your heat tolerance!
Can I make this gluten-free chilli con carne recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily transform this gluten-free chilli con carne into a vegetarian or vegan version by making a few simple substitutions:
Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne Alternatives
- Replace the 500g beef mince with:
- Quorn mince (vegetarian)
- Mixed beans (kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans)
- Lentils
- Plant-based meat alternatives
Vegan Chilli Con Carne Modifications
To make the recipe fully vegan:
- Replace beef mince with plant-based protein options
- Omit dairy toppings like yoghurt and cheese
- Use dairy-free alternatives such as:
- Coconut yoghurt
- Nutritional yeast
- Dairy-free sour cream
- Sliced avocado
Vegetarian and Vegan Chilli Con Carne Cooking Tips
- Adjust cooking time for plant-based ingredients
- Ensure all spices and sauces are vegan-friendly
- Maintain the same spice blend and cooking method
The core recipe remains largely unchanged, making it simple to adapt to vegetarian and vegan diets while keeping the delicious, hearty flavour of the original chilli con carne.
Remember, part of the joy of cooking is in experimenting. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and make this chilli your own.
Origins of Chilli Con Carne
Chilli con carne, which translates to “chilli with meat” in Spanish, has a rich and somewhat disputed history. While the dish is often associated with Mexican cuisine, its origins are more closely tied to the American Southwest, particularly Texas.
The earliest written record of chilli con carne dates back to 1828 in San Antonio, Texas. However, similar meat and chilli pepper stews were likely consumed by Native Americans and Spanish settlers long before this date.
Some key points about the origins of chilli con carne include:
- Tex-Mex roots: The dish is considered a quintessential Tex-Mex recipe, blending Mexican and American culinary traditions.
- Chilli Queens: In the late 1800s, San Antonio’s “Chilli Queens” popularised the dish, selling it from stands in the city’s plazas.
- Wolf Brand Chili: In 1895, Lyman T. Davis began selling chilli in Corsicana, Texas, which later became the famous Wolf Brand Chili.
- Official dish: In 1977, chilli con carne was designated the official dish of Texas, cementing its cultural importance.
While the modern recipe has evolved, incorporating beans and various spices, the core concept of meat cooked with chilli peppers remains true to its Texan roots.
Today, chilli con carne is enjoyed worldwide, with countless regional and personal variations, including our gluten-free version.
Are you ready to try my gluten-free beef chilli con carne recipe? Then let’s get started:
Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Chili Con Carne Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Table Spoon
- Large Frying pan
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 500 g Grass-fed beef mince
- 400 g Tin of tomatoes
- 480 g Jar of tomatoes and roasted vegetables pasta sauce
- 400 g Tin of kidney beans in chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Tomato puree
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Cardamom pods (slightly crushed)
- 1 tbsp Sweet chili sauce
- 400 g Basmati rice
- Plain yoghurt (to serve optional)
- Grated cheese (to serve also optional)
Instructions
- Fry the beef in a large heavy-based pan for about 5 minutes breaking it up with a wooden spoon to evenly cook it.
- Add the spices next and stir in well.
- Next add the tin of tomatoes, pasta sauce, tomato puree, kidney beans, and sweet chili sauce.
- Bring to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Boil the rice while the chili is simmering (if using).
- Serve with some plain yoghurt or grated cheese.
Nutrition
If you enjoy my gluten free chilli con carne recipe and are interested in more beef-based recipes, then check out my gluten-free stuffed peppers.
If you are looking for a vegetarian option, then take a look at my gluten-free vegetable chilli recipe.
If you enjoy a tipple with your chilli, cider can be a refreshing pairing. You can check if cider is safe with my article: Is cider gluten free?
Frequently asked questions
Here are some popular questions that I get asked about this recipe:
Do chilli beans have gluten?
Chilli beans are naturally gluten-free, but caution is needed when using canned or pre-seasoned varieties. While plain kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans used in chilli are inherently gluten-free, some canned chilli beans may contain gluten-containing additives or be processed in facilities that handle gluten products.
When preparing gluten-free chilli con carne, it’s crucial to read labels carefully, choose plain beans or those clearly labelled gluten-free, and avoid potential cross-contamination.
Does chilli powder have gluten in it?
Chilli powder is typically gluten-free, but it’s essential to exercise caution when purchasing commercial blends. Pure chilli powder, made solely from ground dried chilli peppers, is naturally gluten-free.
However, some commercial chilli powder blends may contain additional ingredients or be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing products, which could lead to cross-contamination.
How to make gluten free chilli con carne?
Purchase the ingredients and follow the instructions on this recipe and within 45 minutes you will have a scrummy chilli con carne ready to serve.
Will you like my chilli con carne?
Well, I can only speak of my own experiences with this recipe, but I absolutely love it and it quickly became one of my husband, Joe’s firm favourites.
We are both big chilli con carne fans thanks to this fantastic recipe. I am willing to bet that you are going to love it!
Does chilli con carne contain gluten?
Chilli con carne is naturally gluten-free, which is fantastic news for us coeliacs! The main ingredients—beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices—don’t contain gluten at all.
However, it’s always wise to double-check the specific brands you’re using. Some pre-packaged sauces or spice mixes might sneak in gluten-containing additives, so keep an eye out!
If you’re following a recipe that’s been crafted with gluten-free ingredients in mind, like the recipe on this very page, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of chilli without worry. Just make sure to pick your ingredients carefully, and you’ll have a hearty meal that’s safe for your tummy.
Is Uncle Ben’s chilli con carne sauce gluten free?
Yes, Uncle Ben’s chilli con carne sauce (now known as Ben’s Original) is gluten-free.
The product does not contain any gluten ingredients, and multiple sources confirm its gluten-free status. The sauce is made primarily from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and adzuki beans, with no wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients listed. Additionally, the product is free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives.
Can I make your gluten-free chilli con carne recipe dairy free?
Absolutely! To make this gluten-free chilli con carne recipe dairy-free, simply omit the optional dairy toppings. Instead of using plain yoghurt or grated cheese as suggested in the original recipe, try these delicious dairy-free alternatives:
Dairy-Free Topping Options
- Coconut yoghurt
- Dairy-free cashew cream
- Nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavour)
- Sliced avocado
- Chopped fresh coriander
- Dairy-free sour cream alternatives
The base recipe is already naturally dairy-free, so you’ll only need to make minor adjustments to the serving suggestions. The core ingredients – beef mince, tomatoes, kidney beans, and spices – remain unchanged. This means you can enjoy the full flavour of the chilli con carne without any dairy concerns.
Pro tip: Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they are completely dairy-free, as some products can contain unexpected dairy derivatives.
How spicy is this gluten free chilli con carne recipe?
I like to make my Chilli Con Carne mildly spicy, although my husband likes it hot, so keep the chilli peppers bottle handy if you want to dial up the spice!
Can I freeze this gluten-free chilli con carne?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this gluten-free chilli con carne! The recipe is specifically designed to be freezer-friendly.
Freezing Tips
- Allow the chilli to cool completely before freezing
- Store in airtight, freezer-safe containers
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Recommended to freeze without rice or additional toppings
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chilli:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight
- Reheat thoroughly in a pan or microwave
- Stir occasionally to ensure even heating
- Add a splash of water if the consistency seems too thick
This makes my recipe perfect for batch cooking and having a delicious, convenient meal ready whenever you need it!
Gluten-free chilli con carne tips
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of my gluten-free chilli con carne recipe:
Avoid cross-contamination
If you’re preparing gluten-free chilli con carne in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination.
Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from coming into contact with the ingredients.
When possible, do not use wooden utensils, cutting boards, and rolling pins that are used with gluten.
Label items
Consider buying two of certain shared food items like jam, and butter, dedicate one, and label it as gluten-free.
Cooking oil
Use separate oils to fry gluten-free foods as they will become contaminated and not safe to eat.
Personal Hygiene
Always wash your hands with hot water and soap before you handle any ingredients.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Comments
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This is a delicious dish, and very easy to make.
I really enjoyed the whole experience.
Wonderful dish.
Really enjoyed making it. Very easy.
Liked the different ways to make it.
So flavorful and hearty—it’s now a staple on our weeknight menu.
This hearty and flavorful chilli has become a staple in our household, perfect for cozy nights in.