Slimming World Chilli Con Carne: A Hearty and Healthy Recipe

This delicious Slimming World Chilli Con Carne recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. It's packed with flavour, surprisingly low in Syns, and easily adaptable to your preferences. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavour while minimizing the need for oil and high-syn ingredients, making it ideal for those following the Slimming World plan.

Ingredients for a Syn-Friendly Chilli Con Carne (Serves 4-6)

• Lean Protein: 500g extra lean minced beef (at least 5% fat) or a vegetarian alternative like Quorn mince.
• Aromatic Vegetables: 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped.
• Chilli Heat: 1-2 red chillies, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat); 1 tbsp chilli powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp ground cumin.
• Hearty Base: 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes; 1 x 400g can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 x 400g can black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp tomato puree.
• Seasoning & Depth: 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Optional Extras (Syn-Conscious Choices): A small handful of fresh coriander, chopped (low in syns); A squeeze of lime juice at the end (very low in syns).

Method: Cooking your Slimming World Chilli

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Spray a large, deep pan or Dutch oven with low-calorie cooking spray. Add the onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Brown the Mince: Add the minced beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Build the Flavour: Stir in the chillies, chilli powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Add the chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and tomato puree. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or longer for a richer flavour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavours will meld. Stir occasionally.
5. Finishing Touches: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in your optional fresh coriander and lime juice.

Serving Suggestions for your Slimming World Chilli

• Serve with a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheese (check Syn values).
• Enjoy with wholemeal bread or wraps (be mindful of your Syn allowance).
• Serve alongside a side salad for extra fibre and vitamins.
• Consider serving it over a bed of mashed sweet potato for added sweetness and nutrients.

Tips for a Super Slimming Chilli

• Use lean protein: The leaner the mince, the lower the fat content and overall syns.
• Load up on vegetables: Adding more vegetables will increase the volume and nutritional value of your chilli without significantly impacting the syn count.
• Spice it up: Using spices adds flavour without adding extra syns.
• Don't be afraid to experiment: Try adding other vegetables like mushrooms, courgettes, or butternut squash.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze this chilli? A: Yes, this chilli freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: What are the Syn values? A: The syn value will vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Using extra lean mince and focusing on low-syn additions will keep the syn count low. Always check your Slimming World app or book for the most accurate syn values.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Follow steps 1-3 in a large pan, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

This Slimming World Chilli Con Carne recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a healthy weight loss journey. Enjoy!