California Beef and Black Bean Chili

California Beef and Black Bean Chili Recipe - Flavorful & Hearty US Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, black beans, and a variety of spices to create a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests.

History

Chili has a long history in the United States, with variations of the dish dating back to the early 19th century. California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a modern twist on this classic dish, incorporating ingredients commonly found in California cuisine such as bell peppers, jalapeños, and cilantro.

Ingredients

1.33 cups black beans
1 lb (454 g) beef top round
1.25 tsp cumin seeds
1.25 tsp oregano
0.33 tsp dried sage
1 small bay leaf
1 scallion
0.33 tsp cayenne pepper
0.67 tsp paprika
1 garlic clove
1.5 tbsp red wine vinegar
0.33 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp cilantro
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 green bell pepper
1 red bell pepper
1.5 tbsp jalapeño pepper
2 cups canned tomatoes
4 cups bean cooking liquid

How to prepare

Sort and rinse the black beans.
Place the black beans in a heavy pot and cover with cold water, ensuring that the water level is at least 2 inches above the beans.
Bring the water to a boil and then simmer the beans until they are tender, which should take about 1.25 hours. Add more water if necessary.
Once the beans are tender, drain them while reserving the cooking liquid.
Lightly toast the cumin seeds in a heated skillet for about 2 to 3 minutes, then finely crush them.
Combine the ground cumin seeds with the oregano, sage, bay leaf, and scallions.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the onions until they become translucent. Then, add the green, red, and jalapeño peppers and sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sautéed vegetables to the heavy pot.
Add the beef to the sautéed vegetables and brown it.
Add the remaining ingredients to the beef-vegetable mixture.
Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer until the beef is tender, which should take about 1 hour.
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the beans to the mixture to heat through.

Variations

Add corn or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Use different types of beans such as kidney beans or pinto beans for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak and cook the black beans until they are tender before adding them to the chili.

- Toasting and crushing the cumin seeds before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor.

- Browning the beef before adding it to the chili will add depth and richness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve California Beef and Black Bean Chili with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a side of cornbread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the chili will enhance their flavor.

- Simmering the chili slowly will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and delicious dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cumin seeds, you can use ground cumin instead.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

California Beef and Black Bean Chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish California Beef and Black Bean Chili with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve California Beef and Black Bean Chili with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of California Beef and Black Bean Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of California Beef and Black Bean Chili contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of California Beef and Black Bean Chili contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of California Beef and Black Bean Chili contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of California Beef and Black Bean Chili contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains beef and may not be suitable for individuals with beef allergies.

Summary

California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and bold flavors, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for California Beef and Black Bean Chili. It was a hot summer day in Los Angeles, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she always had new and exciting recipes to share with me.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the delicious aroma of spices and herbs. Maria was busy stirring a pot on the stove, and she had a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "I have a new recipe to share with you today," she said, handing me a worn piece of paper. "It's a California Beef and Black Bean Chili. I think you're going to love it."

I eagerly took the recipe and read through the ingredients. Ground beef, black beans, onions, garlic, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a hint of lime juice. It sounded like the perfect combination of flavors and textures. I couldn't wait to give it a try.

Maria walked me through the steps of preparing the chili, explaining each ingredient and the importance of layering the flavors. She told me stories of how she had learned to cook from her own grandmother and how cooking had always been a way for her to connect with her Mexican heritage.

As the chili simmered on the stove, Maria and I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on glasses of iced tea and catching up on each other's lives. The smell of the chili filled the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.

Finally, it was time to serve the chili. Maria ladled generous portions into bowls and topped them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a handful of shredded cheese. She handed me a spoon and urged me to take the first bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth – the rich and savory beef, the creamy black beans, the tangy tomatoes, and the warm spices. It was a perfect balance of sweet and savory, spicy and mild. I couldn't believe how delicious it was.

I begged Maria for the recipe, and she happily obliged. I scribbled it down on a piece of paper, knowing that this California Beef and Black Bean Chili would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I've made this chili countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I've added more garlic, a touch of smoked paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon. Each time I make it, I think of Maria and that hot summer day in Los Angeles when she first introduced me to this delicious dish.

I've shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about it. They always ask me where I learned to make such a flavorful and satisfying chili, and I smile and tell them about my dear friend Maria and the day she shared her recipe with me.

Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and memories, and to create something delicious out of simple ingredients. This California Beef and Black Bean Chili is a perfect example of that – a dish that brings people together and warms the soul.

So, the next time you're in the mood for a hearty and flavorful meal, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And maybe, just maybe, you'll think of me and my dear friend Maria as you enjoy each delicious bite.