This Black Bean Chili is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! Made with black beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices, it’s a comforting dish sure to please everyone.
It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel cozy inside. I love piling on toppings like cheese and avocado! Plus, it’s easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These are the star of the show! You can use canned black beans for convenience, but if you prefer, you can cook dried beans from scratch. Just soak them overnight and simmer until tender. This can take a bit of time but boosts flavor.
Ground Beef: My go-to is lean ground beef because it adds richness. However, ground turkey or chicken works well too, making the dish leaner. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat or add more beans or lentils instead for protein.
Spices: Chili powder is essential for that signature flavor. If you want to ramp up the taste, add some extra cumin or even a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Don’t have smoked paprika? Use regular, but smoked adds a unique depth.
Broth: I prefer beef broth for rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for vegetarian versions. You can also use water in a pinch, but the broth definitely enhances the dish.
How Do You Achieve a Deep Flavor in Your Chili?
The secret to a rich and tasty chili lies in the way you layer the flavors. Start by cooking the onions until they’re soft, then add garlic just until fragrant. This builds a base of flavor that’s super important.
- When adding spices, cook them briefly before adding the beans and liquids. This helps release their oils and brings out their true flavors.
- Don’t rush the simmering step. Letting the chili cook for 25-30 minutes gives it time to meld all those delicious flavors together.
- Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to suit your liking—whether that means more salt, spice, or even a squeeze of lime for brightness.
How to Make Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (can substitute ground turkey or omit for vegetarian)
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon 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
For Garnishing:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Black Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to cook. So, in about 45 minutes, you can have a delicious, warm bowl of chili ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent—this takes about 4-5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until you can smell its delightful aroma.
2. Browning the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a leaner chili!
3. Adding the Spices:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy!), and some salt and black pepper. Cook this spice mix for about 1-2 minutes; this toasting technique really enhances the flavor!
4. Mixing in the Rest:
Pour in the drained black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those tasty ingredients!
5. Letting it Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally—this keeps it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Tasting and Adjusting:
After simmering, taste your chili! Feel free to adjust seasoning with more salt or additional chili powder to chase the heat you want. The flavors should be rich and inviting!
7. Serving:
Serve your hot chili into bowls, and have fun garnishing each with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions on top. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Black Bean Chili!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and consider adding more black beans or some lentils for protein. You can also incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. Each will give the chili a slightly different taste and texture but will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, making chili ahead of time enhances the flavors as they meld together! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. It may even taste better the next day!
