Weather: 48 degrees, mud puddles
What I’m listening to: pouring rain
It was wet and windy on Labor Day. The new yellow leaves on the trees were blowing around outside and landing on the deck. The tide was high and the seas were raging. Although we ran some errands, we mostly spent the holiday indoors. A big pot of chili was just exactly what we needed.
Chili and football. Football and chili. Ah, the glories of fall. This new chili recipe was a touchdown with the whole family.
Black Bean Chili
Adapted from [Smells Like Home|http://smells-like-home.com/2011/09/black-bean-and-beef-chili/] and [Kalyn’s Kitchen|http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2008/01/black-bean-and-beef-chili-recipe-with.html]
Yields: 6-8 servings
- 3 (15oz) cans black beans
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 chipotle in adobo, chopped (more if you like your chili hot)
- 1lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 2T chili powder
- 2-1/2t cumin
- 2T tomato paste
- 1t salt
- 1 (15oz) can beef broth
- juice of half a lime
- 1/4c cilantro, chopped
- For Serving:
- jack cheese, grated
- corn chips (like Fritos)
- avocado, chopped
- red onion, chopped
- cilantro, chopped
In a large pot (I used my dutch oven) over medium heat, begin to brown the ground beef.
Meanwhile, drain and rinse two cans of the black beans.
To a blender or large food processor, add the undrained can of black beans, the diced tomatoes (with juice), and the chipotle. Blend until smooth.
When beef is browned, add the onions and cook until opaque, 2-3 minutes. Add the spices, tomato paste, and salt. Cook, stirring, another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
To the pot, add the beef broth, drained black beans, and the contents of the blender. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, 60-90 minutes (I did 90), stirring often to prevent chili from sticking. Chili will thicken as it simmers.
Add the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste chili and check for seasoning. Add more salt if needed. Serve with jack cheese, corn chips, avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro on top.
