Spicy Black Bean Chili

Spicy Black Bean Chili Recipe - A Taste of Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spicy Black Bean Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

History

Black bean chili has been a staple in many Latin American cuisines for centuries. Black beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that have been used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads. This spicy black bean chili recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish, incorporating bold flavors and spices to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 cup of dry black beans
6 cups of water
0.5 cup of chopped medium onion
4 cloves of minced garlic
1 tbsp of cooking oil
1 tbsp of chili powder
1 tsp of ground cumin
1 tsp of dried oregano (crushed)
0.5 tsp of paprika
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground red pepper
4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) of cut-up tomatoes
0.25 cup of dry sherry or water
0.25 cup of plain low-fat yogurt or dairy sour cream
1 tbsp of snipped fresh cilantro

How to prepare

Rinse the beans.
In a large saucepan, combine the beans and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Simmer the beans for 2 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Cover and let the beans stand for 1 hour (or soak them overnight in a covered pan).
Drain and rinse the beans.
In a large saucepan or dutch oven, cook the onion and garlic in hot oil until tender.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and ground red pepper.
Cook and stir the mixture for 1 minute.
Add the beans, vegetable or chicken broth, undrained tomatoes, and sherry or water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the beans are tender.
To serve, ladle the chili into individual bowls.
Top each serving with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream and sprinkle with cilantro.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, for a variation on this recipe.
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the black beans overnight will help them cook faster and more evenly.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder and red pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before serving.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spicy black bean chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the chili for 1 to 1.5 hours will allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to become tender.

- Stirring the spices into the onion and garlic mixture will help to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the chili.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned black beans instead of dry beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken broth for a meatier chili.

Make Ahead Tips

This spicy black bean chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this spicy black bean chili in individual bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this spicy black bean chili with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A glass of red wine or a cold beer would also complement this dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this spicy black bean chili contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this spicy black bean chili contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this spicy black bean chili contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this spicy black bean chili contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Black beans are a good source of iron, magnesium, and folate. This spicy black bean chili is also rich in vitamin C and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and may contain gluten (depending on the type of broth used).

Summary

This spicy black bean chili is a nutritious and delicious meal option that is high in protein and fiber. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

Spicy Black Bean Chili is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors, this chili is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a cool autumn day, the leaves were starting to change colors and there was a crispness in the air that signaled the arrival of my favorite season. I had just finished hosting a potluck dinner with some friends, and one of them had brought a delicious pot of spicy black bean chili.

As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to have the recipe. The flavors were bold and rich, with just the right amount of heat to warm you up from the inside out. I begged my friend to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.

The next day, I set out to make the chili for myself. I gathered all the ingredients - black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices - and got to work in the kitchen. As the chili simmered on the stove, filling the house with its mouthwatering aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction.

When I finally sat down to enjoy a bowl of the chili, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe. It was the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and each bite was more delicious than the last. I was already dreaming of the next time I could make it for my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made this spicy black bean chili countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a little extra spice or a new ingredient, but the core of the recipe remains the same. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want something comforting and satisfying.

I have shared the recipe with many people over the years, passing it on to friends and family who have all fallen in love with it just as I did. It has become a sort of legacy, a piece of myself that I can leave behind for others to enjoy long after I am gone.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It can be served on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal, or paired with a side of cornbread or rice for a more substantial dish. It can be topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for a touch of creamy richness, or served with a side of tortilla chips for a bit of crunch.

I have even used the chili as a filling for tacos or burritos, adding a whole new dimension of flavor to these classic dishes. The possibilities are endless, and I am always finding new ways to enjoy this beloved recipe.

As I sit here, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have shared their knowledge and expertise with me over the years. From my friend who first introduced me to the chili, to the countless others who have passed down their own recipes and techniques, I am thankful for the wealth of culinary wisdom that surrounds me.

I hope that this recipe brings as much joy and satisfaction to others as it has brought to me. May it warm your soul and nourish your body, just as it has done for me time and time again. And may it serve as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.