Three Bean Chili Recipe

There’s nothing like a bowl of homemade chili to warm you up on a chilly day or satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful. This Three Bean Chili Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing a cozy family dinner, or looking for a delicious meal prep option for the week. Packed with three types of beans, juicy ground beef, and spicy Mexican beef chorizo, this chili is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that bursts with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Three Bean Chili

This chili recipe stands out because of its rich, robust flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability. Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer a milder dish, this chili is customizable to suit your taste. It combines three different beans – red kidney beans, black beans, and white beans – which not only add a variety of textures but also boost the dish’s nutritional value. Plus, the blend of spices and the addition of Mexican beef chorizo give this chili a unique kick that you won’t find in other recipes.

Ingredients Needed for Three Bean Chili

To prepare this delicious chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2-3 jalapeno peppers, diced (use bell pepper for a milder heat)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Mexican beef chorizo
• 3 tablespoons chili powder (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spicy heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 2 15-ounce cans fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15-ounce can white beans (Great Northern or cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
• Hot sauce, to taste
• Toppings of your choice (shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onion, cilantro, tortilla chips, etc.)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation for Three Bean Chili

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften, stirring occasionally. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and Mexican beef chorizo to the pot. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
5. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, red kidney beans, black beans, and white beans. Add hot sauce to taste if you like a bit more heat. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the chili to cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. For a richer flavor, simmer for up to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve and Garnish: Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, or a side of tortilla chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Sautéing the Vegetables Properly: Make sure the onions, peppers, and garlic are softened and slightly caramelized before adding the meat. This step builds the base flavor of your chili.
• Overcooking the Meat: Browning the meat is crucial, but be careful not to overcook it at this stage, as it will continue to cook while simmering with the other ingredients.
• Skipping the Simmer: Allow enough time for the chili to simmer. This helps develop the flavors and ensures a thicker, more delicious consistency.

Tips for Perfect Three Bean Chili

• Adjust the Heat: Use bell peppers instead of jalapenos for a milder chili, or add extra cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a bit of cocoa powder or a small piece of dark chocolate to deepen the flavor profile of your chili.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and beef chorizo, and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve this chili in a large, deep bowl with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Add a dash of chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad to complete the meal. For a creative twist, serve the chili in a bread bowl or topped over a baked potato.

How to Store Leftover Three Bean Chili

• Refrigerate: Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chili in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian or Vegan Option: Replace the ground beef and beef chorizo with additional beans or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a plant-based version.
• Swap the Beans: Use chickpeas or pinto beans instead of one of the beans listed in the recipe for a different texture and flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Include diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

FAQ About Three Bean Chili

• How do I make the chili less spicy? Use fewer jalapeno peppers or replace them with bell peppers. You can also omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the amount of chili powder.
• Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? Yes, after browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• What toppings work best with chili? Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped green onions, cilantro, tortilla strips, or crushed crackers.

conclusion

Enjoy this hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe for your next family dinner or gathering. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes!

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