Black Bean Chili
- From The Winter Vegetarian
- Learn More
Chili doesn’t get much better than this spicy version with black beans. Cooked with tomatoes, the beans take on a beautiful mahogany color. Serve the chili plain or over boiled rice, and sprinkle with grated cheese if you like.
- 1 pound dried black beans
- 4 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped
- 4 large garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
- One 28-oz. can tomatoes, coarsely chopped, including the juice
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tbsp. ground cumin
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne
- 4 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1-1/2 tsp. salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp. dark brown sugar
- Grated Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Soak the beans in water to cover overnight. The next day, drain them and place in a large stockpot with the 4 cups of water. Add the bay leaf and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, until the beans are tender but still slightly chewy.
While the beans are simmering, slowly cook the onions, garlic, and red pepper in the oil for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir into the bean pot. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the grated cheese, and simmer, covered for 1 hour. Serve hot, sprinkled with cheese, if desired.
Serves 6 to 8.