Chilli Con Carne in a Pie!

Are you a fan of the fiery, flavourful and oh-so comforting dish that is chilli con carne? Ever wondered where this delicious concoction came from? Pull up a chair and grab a spoon (maybe some maracas), because we're about to dive into the spicy origins of this beloved dish!

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Chilli con carne, which translates to "chilli with meat," and most food historians agree that chilli con carne has its roots in Texas, making it a quintessential Tex-Mex dish. The story goes back to the 1800s, when Spanish settlers in the region combined native ingredients with European cooking techniques. They used readily available meat, chilli peppers, and spices to create a hearty stew that could be easily prepared and preserved.

By the late 19th century, chilli con carne had become a staple in San Antonio, Texas. The "Chilli Queens," a group of entrepreneurial women, would set up makeshift stalls in the city's plazas, serving their spicy stew to locals and visitors. Their delicious and affordable chilli quickly gained popularity, cementing its place in Texan cuisine.

Chilli con carne’s fame spread beyond Texas when it was scrawled in various cookbooks. The dish’s adaptability and robust flavour made it a favourite throughout America and across the seas on our glorious turf!

The traditional chilli con carne recipe is super simple, consisting of ground beef, chilli peppers, tomatoes, and a mix of spices like cumin, garlic, and oregano. Over time, variations have emerged, incorporating beans, onions, and other ingredients to suit local tastes and preferences.

Whether you like it mild or scorching hot, with beans or without, chilli con carne is a dish that brings people together with its warmth and versatility. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or just about any occasion that calls for a hearty, comforting meal.

 

The story for this one is a good’un so get comfy as we recount the tale. Richard, a former employee who was with us for yonks, went to Mexico and came back with an unhealthy obsession for chillies. He put chillies on EVERYTHING! Sandwiches, dinner, cereal… everything! This gave Simon an idea… why not put the classic Mexican dish we all love into a pie?! So that’s exactly what he did.

And what’s a Mexican dinner without nachos!?

 

Say hola to the Ricardo. A classic chilli con carne with just the right amount of heat stuffed into our crisp pastry, with a layer of cheddar cheese and topped with crisp tortilla chips!