Smoky Black Bean Chili

This hearty smoky black bean chili is packed with robust southwestern flavors, rich spices, and tender beans. A touch of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce delivers a deep, campfire-like smokiness that makes this vegan dish incredibly satisfying.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 29 minutes
• Total time: 44 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: International

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large red onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 to 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen sweet corn
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced red onion and green bell pepper, sautéing for about 6 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth.
5. Add the drained black beans and bring the entire mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Stir in the frozen sweet corn and pure maple syrup, then simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Tips

• Adjust the heat level easily by increasing or decreasing the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce used.
• A splash of maple syrup helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the intense smokiness of the chipotles.
• Serve this chili with fresh avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the rich flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months in airtight, freezer-safe containers.

What can I substitute for chipotle peppers in adobo?

You can use an extra teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper, though you will lose some of the deep smoky complexity.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the aromatics and spices first, then combine everything in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.