This Black Bean Chili is a hearty delight! Packed with flavorful spices, black beans, and colorful veggies, it’s sure to warm you up on a chilly day. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Honestly, there’s nothing like a big bowl of this chili on a cozy night. I love topping it with cheese and avocado—yum! Trust me, you’ll want seconds…and maybe even thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These are the star of your chili! If you can’t find black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans can work, too. Just make sure to rinse and drain them to remove excess sodium.
Ground Beef: If you want a vegetarian option, skip the beef altogether. You can add more beans or some diced mushrooms for texture. Tempeh or lentils also make great substitutes!
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor. If you’re out, you could use a mix of paprika, cayenne, and cumin as a replacement. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices to your taste—spice it up if you love heat!
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from Your Chili?
The secret lies in the sautéing! Start by cooking the onions and bell peppers until soft. This step helps build a flavor base. Don’t rush the process; give it about 5 minutes, then add garlic for an aromatic boost.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning your veggies.
- If you’re using ground beef, make sure to break it down well as it cooks for even texture.
- Toast your spices briefly before adding liquids to enhance their flavor.
- Let the chili simmer longer (even an hour) if you can—it makes a big difference in flavor!
Don’t forget to taste and adjust! Add a little more salt, some extra chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for that added kick. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (optional for a meat version; omit for vegetarian)
- 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 or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Black Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-60 minutes to cook, depending on how long you want to simmer it for. It’s a quick recipe but has the potential for rich, developed flavors if you let it simmer longer!
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 red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and the kitchen smells great!
2. Add Garlic and Beef (if using):
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly. If you’re using ground beef, add it to the pot now and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the Spices:
Once your vegetables and beef are ready, it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir them in and cook for 1-2 minutes to let those spices toast and release their yummy aromas.
4. Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time for the stars of the dish! Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. If you want it even more flavorful, feel free to let it simmer longer!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, take a moment to taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or more spices if desired. Every chili can be different, so make it your own!
7. Serve with Toppings:
Finally, ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy every hearty spoonful of your delicious Black Bean Chili!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans for This Chili?
Absolutely! Canned black beans are convenient and easy to use—just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to reduce excess sodium. Using canned beans saves time without sacrificing flavor, making your chili prep quick and hassle-free!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or chili powder. You could also include some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking. For an extra spicy kick, try adding some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through. The flavors often get even better after a day or two!
Can I Freeze This Chili?
Yes! This chili freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickened up too much.