This Black Bean Chili is hearty and full of flavor! It’s made with black beans, tomatoes, and spices that warm you right up. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
I love how easy it is to throw together, especially on chilly days. Just simmer and enjoy! Perfect with some cornbread on the side. Yum! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking! You can use any cooking oil you have, like vegetable or canola oil, if you want. I find that olive oil adds a nice flavor, though!
Ground Beef: You can swap it for ground turkey or even leave it out for a vegetarian version. If you use mushrooms or lentils instead, it’ll still be hearty.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super convenient. If you want a different flavor, kidney beans or pinto beans can be used, but black beans give a wonderful taste.
Chili Powder: This gives the dish its kick! If you have a spice blend, like taco seasoning, you can use that too. Just taste as you go!
Beef Broth: Swap it with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. The chili will still be delicious!
How Do You Cook the Chili to Get All Those Great Flavors?
Cooking your chili low and slow is key to bringing out the flavors. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic together, which helps build a tasty base. Don’t rush the browning of the meat either; you want that caramelized flavor!
- Make sure to cook the spices for a minute after adding them—that’s how they bloom and release their full flavor.
- After adding the beans and tomatoes, let the chili simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. This melds all the flavors deliciously.
- Taste before serving, adjusting the seasoning if needed. A bit of salt or even a splash of lime can enhance the taste!
How to Make Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Black Bean Chili recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook it for about 7-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it from the pot.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. This will toast the spices and really enhance the flavors!
4. Combine the Key Ingredients:
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This is where all those delicious flavors start to come together!
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling gently, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Stir it occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After 30 minutes, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A bit more salt or a touch of pepper can make it perfect for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. Enjoy your warm and hearty Black Bean Chili!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Absolutely! Using canned black beans is not only convenient but also saves time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chili to reduce sodium content.
What If I Don’t Have Chili Powder?
No worries! If you’re out of chili powder, you can create your own blend using equal parts paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. You can also use taco seasoning in a pinch for a similar flavor profile.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Definitely! You can replace the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The recipe will still be filling and flavorful without the meat!
How Should I Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well! Just pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers and you can enjoy it later—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
