Ingredients and Weight:
- Black beans, 1 pound (dried) or 2 cans (15 ounces each)
- Chickpeas, 1 pound (dried) or 2 cans (15 ounces each)
- Onion, 1 large (12 ounces)
- Green bell pepper, 1 large (8 ounces)
- Red bell pepper, 1 large (8 ounces)
- Jalapeno pepper, 1 (4 ounces), seeded and minced (optional)
- Garlic, 4 cloves (2 ounces)
- Olive oil, ¼ cup
- Ground beef, 1 pound (optional)
- Vegetable broth, 4 cups
- Tomato sauce, 1 can (15 ounces)
- Tomato paste, 2 tablespoons
- Chili powder, 2 tablespoons
- Cumin, 1 tablespoon
- Oregano, 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Time:
1 hour
Cooking Time:
1 hour
Difficulty Level:
3 (moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- If using dried beans and chickpeas, soak them in water overnight. Rinse and drain before using.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef (if using) and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add onion, bell peppers, jalapeno (if using) and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add beans, chickpeas, vegetable broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
- Season with additional spices to taste, if desired.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated fat: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
- Sodium: 400 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fiber: 15 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Savory, spicy, and hearty
- Perfect for a cold winter night
- Can be made with or without meat
- Customizable with your favorite toppings (e.g., cheese, sour cream, avocado)
User Comments:
- "This chili is absolutely delicious! It's got the perfect balance of spices and the beans and chickpeas make it really hearty."
- "I love how easy this chili is to make. It's a lifesaver on busy weeknights."
- "This chili is so flavorful and warming. I highly recommend it!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you don't have time to soak the beans overnight, you can quick-soak them by boiling them for 3 minutes, then removing them from the heat and letting them stand for 1 hour.
- To make a vegetarian chili, omit the ground beef.
- For a spicier chili, add more jalapeno pepper or cayenne pepper.
- Serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
