Mexican Style Chili Beans

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Mexican-style chili beans are a delicious, hearty dish full of bold flavors and spices. They can be served as a main dish, a side, or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or rice. Here’s a classic recipe for you:

Mexican-Style Chili Beans Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pinto beans (or black beans), soaked overnight
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, diced)
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 cup cooked ground beef, chorizo, or shredded chicken (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Beans:
    • If using dried beans, drain the soaking water, rinse, and cook in fresh water until tender (about 1-1.5 hours). If using canned beans, drain and rinse.
  2. Sauté Aromatics:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
    • Stir in garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Spices & Tomatoes:
    • Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and ground coriander. Stir to toast the spices for about 30 seconds.
    • Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), and sugar. Stir well.
  4. Simmer the Beans:
    • Pour in the cooked beans along with the broth. Stir and let simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Add Protein (Optional):
    • If using meat, add cooked ground beef, chorizo, or shredded chicken at this stage and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
  6. Finish with Freshness:
    • Stir in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve hot with warm corn tortillas, rice, or crusty bread.
  • Top with avocado slices, queso fresco, sour cream, or diced onions for extra flavor.
  • Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.

 

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