This hearty black bean chili is packed with flavor! Made with tender black beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s perfect for warming you up on chilly days.
I love how it’s a one-pot wonder—easy to make and clean up. Pair it with some cornbread, and you have a meal that will impress family and friends! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: The star of this chili! Black beans add protein and a creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with kidney beans or pinto beans.
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its richness, but ground turkey works well too if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables.
Chili Powder: This is key for flavor. If you’re looking for a milder chili, you can reduce the amount or use a sweet paprika instead. Some people love adding chipotle powder for a smoky kick!
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but any cooking oil like vegetable or canola works just as well. Use non-stick spray if you prefer less fat!
How Do You Get the Most Flavor Out of Your Chili?
Building flavor in chili is all about the technique and timing. First, make sure to cook your onions until they are soft; that’s when they release their sweetness. Browning the meat with the spices also creates a deeper flavor. Here’s how:
- After you sauté the onions and garlic, don’t rush the browning of the meat. Cook it until it’s nicely browned for the best depth of flavor.
- Let the chili simmer uncovered—this helps to thicken the chili and concentrate the flavors.
- Taste halfway through cooking! This allows you to adjust seasoning, ensuring it’s just how you like it.
These simple steps can transform your black bean chili into a cozy and delicious dish everyone will love!
How to Make Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or substitute with 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)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious black bean chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The simmering time is key to developing deep flavors, so don’t rush it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring often to prevent the garlic from burning. This step creates a tasty base for your chili!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until it’s browned and breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it. We want to keep it tasty, not greasy!
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes. This helps release the amazing aromas and flavors from the spices!
4. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, and broth. Stir until everything is well mixed. Your chili is really coming together now!
5. Bring to a Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering will help thicken the chili and blend the flavors beautifully!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt or chili powder if you like a little kick. Everyone’s taste is different, so make it just the way you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your homemade black bean chili! Serve it hot, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped green onions or cilantro. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Enjoy your warm and comforting black bean chili! 🌶️
Can I Use Canned Black Beans?
Absolutely! Canned black beans are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to reduce sodium and improve their flavor.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños. For an extra kick, consider using a spicy chili powder or a dash of hot sauce in the mix!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes! Leftover black bean chili freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
For a lighter option, ground turkey works well! If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and use extra black beans, lentils, or a mix of chopped vegetables to add heartiness to your chili.
