Smoky, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a masterful fusion of flavors and textures. Crafted with an expert hand, this chili celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients elevated to new heights of culinary sophistication. Prepare to be transported by the intoxicating aroma and the luscious, velvety mouthfeel of this indulgent yet comforting dish.
Why You’ll Love This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili
Simmered to perfection, this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a harmonious blend of earthy, smoky, and subtly spicy notes that come together in a truly elegant and satisfying way. The chili’s richly textured base is the perfect canvas for the tender black beans, which offer a delightful pop of protein and heartiness in every bite. Garnished with a symphony of vibrant toppings, this chili is a true delight for the senses – from the first glimpse of its beautiful hue to the final, lingering flavor. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or served as the centerpiece of a gourmet gathering, this chili is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili are carefully selected to create a depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. At the heart of the dish are the earthy, protein-rich black beans, which are complemented by a symphony of aromatic spices, including smoky chipotle chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Diced tomatoes and a touch of tomato paste provide a luscious, velvety base, while the addition of onions, garlic, and bell peppers adds a beautiful complexity of flavors. A splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro lend a bright, refreshing note to balance the richness of the dish.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) – Black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 large – Yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 2 – Bell peppers, any color, sliced
- 2 tbsp – Chipotle chili powder
- 2 tsp – Ground cumin
- 1 tsp – Dried oregano
- 1 can (28 oz) – Diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tbsp – Tomato paste
- 1 tbsp – Lime juice
- 1/4 cup – Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bell Peppers: Jalapeño or serrano peppers – a spicier swap that adds a fiery edge.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes or a blend of fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce – for a lighter, more rustic texture.
How to Make Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili
Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients and preparing them for the cooking process. Rinse and drain the black beans, then set them aside. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell peppers. Measure out the spices and other key ingredients, ensuring everything is within reach for a seamless cooking experience.
Step 1 — Prepping the Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, until the aroma is intoxicating.
Step 2 — Building the Flavors
Sprinkle in the chipotle chili powder, cumin, and oregano, and give the mixture a good stir to coat the onions and garlic. Allow the spices to toast for a minute or two, releasing their bold, smoky flavors.
Step 3 — Simmering to Perfection
Carefully pour in the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, and the tomato paste. Stir to combine, then add the rinsed and drained black beans. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded and the beans are tender.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
Once the chili has simmered to perfection, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the flavors. If the chili seems too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of broth or water. To serve, ladle the Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili into warm bowls, and garnish each portion with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Indulgent Topping: For an even more indulgent experience, try adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top of the chili.
- Sweet Twist: For a touch of sweetness, stir in a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or honey.
- Lightened-Up Version: Substitute the diced tomatoes with crushed tomatoes or a blend of fire-roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce for a lighter take on the dish.
- Bean Variation: Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney or pinto, to create your own unique spin on this sophisticated yet comforting dish.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a crusty piece of artisanal bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of cornbread for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
Storage: The chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well, so you can enjoy this refined comfort food anytime by stashing portions in the freezer for a quick and easy reheat-and-serve meal.
Reheat: To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl and heat until piping hot.
Make-Ahead: This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is the perfect make-ahead dish, as the flavors only improve as the chili sits. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and simply reheat it when ready to serve.
Nutrition Information
This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a nutritious and well-balanced dish that is sure to nourish both body and soul. The black beans provide a generous amount of plant-based protein, while the tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices offer a wealth of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. With its comforting flavors and satisfying texture, this chili is a true culinary masterpiece that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, wholesome lifestyle.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 16 g
- Carbs: 49 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is easily adaptable to both slow cooker and Instant Pot methods. For the slow cooker, simply add all the ingredients to the pot, stir to combine, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. In the Instant Pot, sauté the onions and garlic, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes, with a natural release.
Can I make this chili vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, this chili can easily be made vegan and gluten-free. Simply omit the sour cream garnish and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a gluten-free version, be sure to check that all your ingredients, such as the canned tomatoes and spices, are certified gluten-free.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can add an extra teaspoon or two of chipotle chili powder, or try stirring in some diced jalapeño or serrano peppers along with the bell peppers. You can also finish the chili with a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is the perfect make-ahead dish. The flavors only improve as the chili sits, so you can prepare it a day or two in advance and simply reheat it when ready to serve. In fact, this chili freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it for weeks or even months to come.
What are some delicious toppings for this chili?
In addition to the fresh cilantro and lime juice, there are so many wonderful ways to dress up this Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili. Some tasty topping ideas include shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, crushed tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of chopped red onion.
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Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Chili is a rich and hearty dish, perfect for cozy evenings. The combination of black beans, smoky chipotle peppers, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in bell pepper, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For a spicier chili, add more chipotle peppers. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chilis
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg