Description
A hearty and flavorful Mexican Pinto Bean Chili packed with smoky spices, tender beans, and a rich tomato base. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – For sautéing vegetables.
- Onion: 1 large, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – Brings bold flavor.
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 large, diced – Adds color and freshness.
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced – For sweetness and balance.
- Pinto Beans: 3 cups cooked (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed) – The creamy star of the dish.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces) – Forms the base.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Thickens and intensifies flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: 3 cups – For simmering and body.
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons – The primary spice kick.
- Ground Cumin: 2 teaspoons – Adds earthiness.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon – For smoky depth.
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon – Provides herbal balance.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – For seasoning.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons – To finish with brightness.
- Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped – For garnish.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper until softened.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook 1 minute to toast spices.
- Assemble the Dish: Add pinto beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir to combine.
- Cook to Perfection: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with cilantro and serve with cornbread, rice, or tortillas.
Notes
- Toast spices briefly for deeper flavor.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smokiness.
- Mash some beans for a thicker texture.
- Add jalapeños for more heat.
- Always add lime juice at the end to keep flavors bright.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg