Spicy Black Bean Chili is a hearty stew made with black beans, tomatoes, and chili spices. It’s warm and filling, perfect for cold days or when you want a quick, flavorful meal.
I love stirring in some corn or a splash of lime at the end. It makes the chili even brighter and tastier—plus, it’s fun to add my favorite toppings!
If you want, serve it with bread or over rice. It’s easy to make ahead, so I often prepare a big pot on weekends for quick dinners during the week.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: I use canned black beans for convenience, draining and rinsing to remove excess salt. If you’re fresh or dried, soak and cook them first. Pinto beans make a good substitute if needed but keep in mind they’re softer.
Chili Powder: This spice blend adds heat and depth; I recommend using a good quality chili powder for richer flavor. If you prefer milder, reduce it, or try smoked paprika for a different smoky kick.
Fresh Jalapeños: Jalapeños give a nice spicy note. Wear gloves when handling to avoid irritation. For less heat, remove seeds and membranes. You can swap with bell peppers for color but less heat.
Cumin: Cumin provides earthiness; I toast it lightly in the pan for extra flavor. Ground coriander is a good substitute if cumin isn’t available but changes the flavor slightly.
Tomato Paste: Adds richness and thickness. I often dilute it with a splash of water if I want a lighter chili. Fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, but you’ll need more for the same effect.
How do I simmer the chili evenly without burning it?
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly. Keep the heat at low to medium; simmer gently. Stir every 15-20 minutes to prevent sticking and burning, especially near the bottom. Cover partially to retain moisture while allowing some steam to escape.
How to Make Spicy Black Bean Chili?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Spices & Sauces
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
Beans & Others
- 2 cans black beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 30 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add Spices
Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release flavors.
3. Combine Main Ingredients
Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir together well.
4. Simmer
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with toppings if desired.
