This Black Bean Chili is a warm and hearty dish packed with flavor. It’s made with tender black beans, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting!
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy days. I love topping mine with a bit of cheese and some crunchy tortilla chips—yum! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: The star of the chili! Canned black beans are convenient, but you can also use dried beans. Just soak and cook them first. If you’re looking for a different flavor, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too.
Ground Beef: This is optional! I love using lean ground beef for its flavor, but for a healthier or plant-based option, consider ground turkey, chicken, or even veggie crumbles. It’s just as tasty without meat!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin bring warmth and depth. If you want a more complex flavor, try adding some oregano or a pinch of cinnamon. Adjust spices based on your heat preference—add more cayenne if you like it spicy!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness! You could swap it for lemon juice, but the flavor will be different. A dash of vinegar could also work if you’re out of citrus.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Chili?
Achieving the perfect chili consistency is key for a satisfying dish. Here are some tips to help you!
- Start by sautéing the onion and garlic well. This builds flavor and helps with texture.
- Make sure to let the chili simmer long enough (25-30 minutes) so it can thicken naturally.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to evaporate some moisture.
This way, you can find the consistency that works best for you! Enjoy making your chili just the way you like it.
How to Make Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound ground beef (optional; can substitute with plant-based crumbles or omit for vegetarian)
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Black Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 45 minutes, you can have a comforting, homemade meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes until it softens. Adding a pinch of salt can help with the softening!
2. Add Garlic and Bell Pepper:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the bell pepper starts to soften. Your kitchen should smell wonderful by now!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
If you’re using ground beef, add it to the pot and cook until it’s browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. If you’re skipping the meat, you can simply proceed to the next step.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Mix everything together well so the flavors combine.
5. Add Spices:
Add in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and some salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps thicken the chili and blend all the flavors together.
7. Finish with Lime Juice:
Once done simmering, stir in the fresh lime juice. This adds a lovely brightness to the chili!
8. Serve It Up:
Now ladle the chili into bowls. Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Feel free to add more toppings based on your preference!
9. Enjoy!
Serve the chili hot, with lime wedges on the side and optional tortilla chips for crunch. This hearty, flavorful Black Bean Chili is perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the chili. This will ensure they’re tender and ready to absorb all the flavors.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or even include hot sauce to taste. Another option is to add diced jalapeños for a fresh kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s also freezer-friendly! Just cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, corn, or carrots. Just sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper to incorporate them well into the dish.
