At Story House Early Learning, mealtimes are more than just food on a plate; they’re moments of comfort, discovery, and full tummies. Behind the scenes at our Lynbrook centre, our talented Chef Rinkal has been serving up nutritious, delicious meals with heart.
With a deep passion for creating child-friendly meals packed with goodness, Chef Rinkal has perfected dishes that our children genuinely look forward to. Curious what’s on the menu?
Today, we’re sharing one of these family favourites straight from Chef Rinkal’s kitchen, her much-loved Chilli Con Carne recipe. Packed with nutrients and hidden veg, this one’s a hit at lunchtime and perfect for the whole family to recreate at home.
Chef Rinkal’s Chilli Con Carne with Rice and Flat Bread
Ingredients
- 500g lean beef mince
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 brown onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red capsicum, finely diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (400g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon mild paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
- 1 cup beef or vegetable stock (low-sodium)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional and minimal)
- For serving:
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Flatbread (store-bought or homemade)
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the capsicum, grated carrot, and zucchini. Cook for 3–4 minutes until veggies start to soften.
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, paprika, and coriander. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- While chilli is simmering, cook rice according to packet instructions.
- Warm flatbread in the oven or a sandwich press just before serving.
- How Children Can Help:
- Wash vegetables (carrots, zucchini, capsicum)
- Grate carrots and zucchini (with adult supervision or using a child-safe grater)
- Help measure out spices or beans
- Stir ingredients in a large mixing bowl before cooking starts
- Set the table and help portion out rice and chilli with a spoon
- Warm flatbread with adult support using a press or placing it on plates
- Learning Opportunities:
- Children learn about where ingredients come from (especially if grown in your veggie garden!)
- Builds confidence, independence, and responsibility through cooking tasks
- Encourages tasting and enjoying nutritious, veggie-rich meals together
Whether it’s their first taste of chilli con carne or a regular favourite, this dish is always a winner at Story House. It’s hearty, wholesome, and made with love, just how Chef Rinkal likes it.
Stay tuned for more recipes and behind-the-scenes moments from our incredible team of educators, carers, and chefs.
