Smoky Black Bean Chipotle Chili

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Smoky Black Bean Chipotle Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. The smoky chipotle peppers and robust black beans create a chili that's not just a meal, but an experience.

Ingredients for Smoky Black Bean Chipotle Chili

Olive oil sets the stage for sautéing, bringing out the flavors of the onion and garlic. Onion and garlic are classic base ingredients that provide a savory foundation. Bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and extra texture. Black beans are the star, offering heartiness and protein. A can of crushed tomatoes gives body and tang, while tomato paste enriches the tomato flavor. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce bring the essential smoky heat that defines this chili. For spices, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and ground coriander create a well-rounded, aromatic mix. Vegetable broth provides the liquid that melds everything together. Finally, a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish, and fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
  • For more heat, add an extra chipotle pepper or a dash of cayenne.
  • Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans in the pot for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs beautifully with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of steamed rice. For a fun twist, serve it with tortilla chips for scooping. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can also complement the smoky flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to cook them beforehand. Make sure they are fully cooked before adding to the chili.
How long does this chili keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it should last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Smoky Black Bean Chipotle Chili Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, and let them sauté until the onion turns translucent. This usually takes about five minutes. Next, add the chopped bell peppers to the pot. Cook them for another three to four minutes, giving them a good stir every now and then.

Now, it's time to bring in the black beans. Add them to the pot, along with the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir everything together until it's well combined. Then, mix in the chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and coriander. These spices are going to make your kitchen smell amazing!

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the chili to a simmer. Once it's bubbling gently, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 30 minutes. Stir it occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. Season with salt and pepper to taste as it cooks.

Just before you’re ready to serve, squeeze in the lime juice and stir. This adds a zesty kick that brightens up the whole dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a final touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • It's packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
  • The smokiness of the chipotle peppers adds a depth of flavor that's irresistible.
  • Perfect for meal prep — it tastes even better the next day!
  • Customizable heat levels to suit your spice preference.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, chopped
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lime, juiced
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Add black beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste, stirring well.
5. Mix in chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and coriander.
6. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 30 minutes.
8. Stir occasionally, adding salt and pepper to taste.
9. Before serving, stir in lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

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