Chili con carne (; ), commonly known in American English as simply "chili", is a spicy
stew containing
chili peppers,
meat (usually
beef), and often
tomatoes and
beans. Other seasonings may include
garlic,
onions, and
cumin. Geographic and personal tastes involve different types of meat and ingredients. Recipes provoke disputes among aficionados, some of whom insist that the word "chili" applies only to the basic dish, without beans and tomatoes. Chili con carne is a frequent dish for
cook-offs and is used as an ingredient in other dishes.