Are you craving a hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This 5-bean chili recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock pot, is the answer to your dinnertime dreams. It's the ultimate in easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will warm you from the inside out – this homemade cooking masterpiece is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6 servings of this healthy meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Crock-Pot Magic:
- Transfer the onion and pepper mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, chickpeas, cannellini beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together to combine.
Slow Cooking Perfection:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and sliced avocado are all excellent choices.
Tips for the Best 5 Bean Chili:
- Don't rinse the beans (except before adding them to the chili): The liquid from canned beans adds flavor and texture.
- Toast the spices: For a deeper, richer flavor, toast the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the chili.
- Add some heat: If you like your chili extra spicy, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a diced jalapeño pepper.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other beans, vegetables, or spices to create your own unique chili recipe. Some people add corn or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Simply substitute vegetable broth for beef broth.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños.
- Beef Chili: Brown 1 lb of ground beef before adding the onions and peppers. Drain off any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious and satisfying 5-bean chili is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas done right. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!