Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also good for you? Look no further! This pinto bean chili recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Packed with protein, fiber, and delicious spices, this homemade chili is a crowd-pleaser that's easy to customize to your liking. It's one of those best recipes that's both simple and impressive, perfect for showcasing your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe is a great example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for added texture)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven 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.
-
Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Simmer the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, pinto beans, kidney beans (if using), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
-
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pinto Bean Chili:
- For a deeper flavor: Consider using a combination of beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian chili.
- Slow cooker magic: This recipe is also perfect for a slow cooker! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- White Chicken Chili: Substitute ground chicken for the beef and add a can of corn and diced green chilies for a lighter, brighter take on this classic.
- Spicy Chorizo Chili: Add a pound of chorizo sausage for a delicious smoky and spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This hearty and flavorful pinto bean chili is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your own tastes and preferences, making it a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!