Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This garbanzo bean chili recipe is a fantastic option for a weeknight meal, offering a hearty and satisfying experience without spending hours in the kitchen. It's packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for healthy eating. This recipe is easily adaptable to your spice preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for a heartier chili)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the flavor: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This step significantly enhances the flavor of your chili.
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Simmer the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, garbanzo beans, kidney beans (if using), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Season and serve: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade garbanzo bean chili! It’s perfect served with cornbread, rice, or your favorite toppings.
Tips for the Best Garbanzo Bean Chili:
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Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder chili, omit it altogether or use a smaller amount. For extra heat, add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
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Add depth of flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the garlic for a richer, deeper tomato flavor.
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Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or carrots. You can also add cooked ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken) for a heartier chili.
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Slow cooker magic: This recipe is easily adaptable to a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables and spices as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fiber: 10-12g
This garbanzo bean chili recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. It’s a great addition to your quick dinner ideas, and a fantastic way to enjoy homemade cooking at its best. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly fits the bill. Enjoy!