Name: Easy Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can of black beans (or 1.5 cups cooked); 1 large sweet potato, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced (any color); 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Juice of 1 lime

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Easy Black Bean Chili to soothe the soul and tantalize your taste buds. This dish bursts with rich, smoky flavors and robust textures, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal prep option. Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, this chili not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes your body, keeping you full and energized throughout the day. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes! The combination of black beans, sweet potatoes, and a variety of spices creates a palatable symphony that transcends basic chili recipes, elevating your dinner to a cozy celebration.

One of the greatest appeals of this recipe is its simplicity; it uses plenty of pantry staples, ensuring you can whip up this delicious meal without needing a long grocery list. If you’re looking for an easy, healthy recipe that the whole family will love, this dish has you covered. It’s surprisingly filling, and the flavor only gets better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Serve it over rice or quinoa, topped with Greek yogurt and a splash of lime juice for an extra zing, and you’ve got yourself a satisfying, hearty meal that comes together effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Black Bean Chili

One-pot meal: Enjoy minimal cleanup and maximum flavor that saves you time and effort.
Wholesome and filling: Each serving is loaded with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Naturally vegetarian (and easily vegan): Simple, clean ingredients make it suitable for a variety of diets.
Perfect for meal prep: It tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for lunches!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into creating this delicious black bean chili, it’s essential to prepare your workspace efficiently. Gather all your ingredients, including black beans, sweet potatoes, onions, bell peppers, garlic, spices, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, broth, balsamic vinegar, and lime juice. Having everything ready at hand will streamline the cooking process and enable you to focus on flavor. You will need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping, alongside a large pot for simmering the chili. A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the ingredients as they cook. If you prefer some heat, keep jalapeños or hot sauce nearby for those who like an extra kick.

Ingredients

1 can of black beans (or 1.5 cups cooked)
1 large sweet potato, diced
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start your journey by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, throw in the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Cook these aromatics for about 4–5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Next, add minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and tomato paste, stirring everything together. Sauté for an additional minute until the spices become fragrant, creating a depth of flavor that forms the foundation of your chili.

Step 2: Incorporate the Main Components

With your base set, it’s time to add in the star ingredients. Toss in the diced sweet potato, canned crushed tomatoes, black beans (rinsed and drained if using canned), and your choice of broth. Make sure all the ingredients are well mixed, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. The sweet potatoes will not only impart a natural sweetness but will also thicken the chili as they cook down, making for a satisfying texture.

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Season the pot with oregano, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the crucial step where the sweet potatoes become fork-tender, and the chili develops its rich consistency. If you prefer a slightly thicker chili, feel free to mash some of the sweet potato with the back of a spoon halfway through cooking.

Step 4: Brighten and Serve

Once your chili has thickened and the sweet potatoes are tender, it’s time to finish it off! Stir in the balsamic vinegar and the juice of fresh lime to brighten the overall flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary to ensure each bite is bursting with flavor.

Serve your black bean chili hot, garnished with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or Skyr, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For those who crave a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up! 🌶️

Variations

Protein: Swap black beans for pinto beans or even add cooked quinoa for a protein boost.
Vegetables: Feel free to add zucchini, diced carrots, or corn for extra texture and sweetness.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as coriander or chipotle chile powder for added depth.

Cooking Notes

For a thicker chili, mash some sweet potato as it cooks.
Make it ahead! This chili can be stored in the fridge for up to five days and freezes well for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Tips

Adjust the spice levels according to your preference; add more chili powder for a spicier kick.
Top with avocado or cheese for a creamy richness that complements the chili beautifully.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 450mg

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! If using dried beans, soak and cook them before adding to the chili. They will require additional cooking time.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! This black bean chili tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep recipe.

Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this recipe is inherently gluten-free!

Can I add meat to this chili?

Yes! Feel free to add ground turkey or beef for a meaty variation.

Conclusion

Your kitchen is now the starting point for creating a delightful Easy Black Bean Chili that will become a go-to dish! This recipe balances the heartiness of black beans and sweet potatoes with rich spices, resulting in a warm and welcoming meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this versatile chili will have them coming back for seconds. Remember to play with variations and toppings to make it your own. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your thoughts or share your own tweaks to this delicious dish!