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Hearty, Smoky Black Bean Chili for Weeknight Dinners

A close-up of a steaming white bowl filled with rich, dark black bean chili, set against a bright, blurred window background.
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This easy black bean chili recipe delivers a bold, smoky flavor profile perfect for a comforting, high fiber, protein-packed meal. It is simple to make and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for extra heartiness)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, rinsed black beans, rinsed kidney beans (if using), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  4. Bring the chili mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for 45 minutes.
  5. Stir in the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Serve this hearty black bean chili hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, mash about 1/4 cup of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To make this a Crockpot Black Bean Chili, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/black-bean-chili-recipe-hearty-smoky/