One-Pan Chilli Con Carne (Meat-Based Recipe)

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2
Suitable for: One-pan hob cooking, no oven required

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
250 grams lean beef mince
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Half a teaspoon chilli powder (adjust to taste)
200 grams chopped tomatoes (half a tin)
200 grams kidney beans, drained
1 tablespoon tomato purée
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated cheese, sour cream or chopped fresh coriander to serve

Method

Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the beef mince and cook for five to six minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for another three minutes until softened. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika and chilli powder, and cook for one minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, drained kidney beans and tomato purée. Mix everything together and simmer uncovered for ten to twelve minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with wraps, cooked rice or tortilla chips, and top with your preferred optional extras if available.

Why It Works for Vanlife Cooking

This meal is simple, uses only one pan, and relies on shelf-stable ingredients like tinned tomatoes and beans. It’s quick to prepare, doesn’t require refrigeration if using ambient-pack mince, and it’s hearty enough to keep you full on a long travel day.