Fiery Chipotle Black Bean Chili

$To make Chipotle Black Bean Chili, you need a few simple items. Here's what to gather: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices - 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 cup vegetable broth - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish - Lime wedges, for serving These ingredients create a rich and flavorful chili. The black beans add protein, while the chipotle gives it a nice kick. Remember to have fresh cilantro and lime wedges ready for serving. They will brighten up the dish and make it even tastier! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I like to wait until the oil shimmers. 2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes. You want it to turn translucent. 3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. After a minute, add the diced red bell pepper and diced carrots. Cook them for three to four minutes. They should soften and smell amazing. 1. Now, it’s time to mix in the black beans and diced tomatoes. Make sure to include their juices for extra flavor. 2. Add the chipotle in adobo sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Pour in the vegetable broth, then stir everything thoroughly. This step ensures all the flavors blend well together. 1. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to let it simmer. 2. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 30 to 35 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. 3. After simmering, taste the chili. Adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. If you want more heat, add extra chipotle. 4. Once it thickens and the flavors meld, remove the pot from heat. 5. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this delicious chili with friends or family! Using fresh herbs brings bright notes to Chipotle Black Bean Chili. Fresh cilantro adds a punch that dried cannot match. You can also try fresh lime juice for zest. Adjusting spice levels is key. Start with the chipotle in adobo sauce. If you want more heat, add more. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance. A heavy-bottomed pot is best for cooking chili. It helps distribute heat evenly. This prevents the chili from burning. A Dutch oven works great for this. Simmering time is super important. Let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to blend well. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. A longer simmer can deepen the taste even more. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your chili. Opt for organic, seasonal produce when possible. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce based on your spice preference. For a milder chili, start with less and add more to taste. Let it Rest: Allow the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together. It often tastes even better the next day! Serve with Toppings: Enhance your chili with a variety of toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream for added texture and flavor. {{image_4}} You can switch black beans for pinto or kidney beans. Pinto beans add a creamier texture. Kidney beans offer a firmer bite. Both types work well with the spices in the chili. Feel free to mix beans for a fun twist. This makes your chili more colorful and interesting. If you want to add protein, try ground meat or tofu. Ground beef or turkey makes a hearty option. If you prefer a plant-based choice, use firm tofu. Crumble the tofu and sauté it with the veggies. Both choices bring great flavor and make the dish more filling. Adjust the heat by changing the chipotle amount. If you like mild chili, use less chipotle. For extra heat, add more chipotle or try cayenne pepper. You can also use sweet paprika for flavor without heat. This way, you can tailor the spice level to your taste. To store leftover chili, let it cool first. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. Store it in the fridge for up to five days. When you are ready to eat, reheat the chili on the stove or in the microwave. Stir it well to heat evenly. If it seems thick, add a splash of broth or water. Freezing is a great way to save extra chili. First, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to leave some space for the chili to expand. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave. Heat it gently on the stove until it is hot throughout. Stir often to make it creamy and delicious again. Enjoy your warm chili! You can serve many tasty sides with this chili. Here are some great options: - Cornbread: It pairs well and soaks up the chili. - Rice: White or brown rice adds a filling touch. - Tortilla chips: They add crunch and fun to each bite. - Fresh avocado: Slices or guacamole brighten the dish. - Sour cream: A dollop cools the heat and adds creaminess. - Lime wedges: Squeezing lime over the chili adds a zesty kick. Yes, you can easily make this chili in a slow cooker. Here are some tips: - Sauté the onion and garlic first, then add them to the slow cooker. - Combine all other ingredients in the slow cooker. - Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. - Stir occasionally, if possible, for even cooking. - Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Chipotle Black Bean Chili lasts well in the fridge. Here’s what you should know: - It stays fresh for about 4-5 days in an airtight container. - Check for signs of spoilage, like off-smells or mold. - If you see any of these signs, it's best to throw it away. This chili combines fresh veggies, rich spices, and beans for a tasty dish. You start by sautéing onions and garlic, then mix in other vegetables and beans. Adjust the heat and let it simmer to meld flavors. Remember, you can customize with different beans or proteins. Store it well to enjoy later. Chili is simple and fun to make. Each bowl warms your spirit and feeds your body. Happy cooking!$

Fiery Chipotle Black Bean Chili

A spicy and hearty chili made with black beans, vegetables, and chipotle in adobo sauce.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup vegetable broth
to taste salt
to taste black pepper
for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
for serving lime wedges

Instructions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and diced carrots. Continue to cook the vegetable mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their delicious flavors.
To the pot, add the rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), chipotle in adobo sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the chili to cook for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to promote even cooking.
After simmering, taste the chili and season it with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting according to your preference. If you desire an extra spicy kick, feel free to add more chipotle from the can for additional heat.
Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully, remove the pot from the heat.
Serve the chili hot, garnished generously with freshly chopped cilantro. Provide lime wedges on the side for diners to squeeze over their servings, enhancing the dish with a zesty finish.

Notes

Serve in rustic bowls with lime wedges for added flavor.

Keyword black beans, chili, spicy, vegetarian