Southwestern Black Bean & Corn Chili

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Welcome to a delightful and hearty dish: Southwestern Black Bean & Corn Chili. This recipe combines zesty flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Dive in and enjoy the warmth and spice of the Southwest!

Ingredients for Southwestern Black Bean & Corn Chili

Olive oil is the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness to the dish. Onion and garlic provide a foundational flavor with their aromatic qualities. Ground turkey introduces a lean protein option that absorbs spices beautifully. Black beans are a powerhouse of fiber and protein, contributing heartiness and a creamy texture. Corn adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant crunch. Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a tangy and mildly spicy kick, enhancing the chili's flavor profile. Chicken broth keeps the chili moist and enhances the depth of flavor. Chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika are the spice trio that defines this dish, providing warmth and complexity. Finally, a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime brighten the finished chili, while sour cream and cheddar cheese add creaminess and flavor richness.

Tips & Tricks

  • To save time, chop onions and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder, or include a chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
  • For a thicker chili, mash some of the black beans before adding them to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or a crusty baguette. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. A side of crunchy tortilla chips can also be a fun addition for some extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, it freezes well. Place cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

Southwestern Black Bean & Corn Chili Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces, cooking until it's browned all over. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Once the turkey is browned, it's time to add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well.

Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the spices in thoroughly, making sure they're evenly distributed throughout the chili.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Once done, ladle the chili into bowls and top with freshly chopped cilantro, a wedge of lime, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
  • Customizable heat level to suit everyone's taste buds.
  • Uses simple pantry staples you likely have on hand.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground turkey
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges
Sour cream for serving
Shredded cheddar cheese for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
2. Add ground turkey, cook until browned.
3. Stir in black beans, corn, tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.

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