Description
This bold and smoky Beef and Black Bean Chili is packed with deep, complex flavors. Inspired by Bobby Flay’s signature style, it features ancho and chipotle chiles, hearty black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a secret ingredient—dark chocolate—for an irresistible depth. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, this chili is hearty, spicy, and ultra-satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chili:
- Ground Beef: 2 lbs (or substitute ground turkey)
- Black Beans: 2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: 2 cans (28 oz total)
- Beef Stock: 2 cups
- Ancho Chile Powder: 2 tbsp
- Chipotle Chiles in Adobo: 2, minced
- Chili Powder: 1 tbsp
- Ground Cumin: 2 tsp
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Cocoa Powder or Dark Chocolate: 1 tbsp (for richness)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Avocado
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Brown the Beef
- Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Toast the Spices
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, ancho chile powder, and chipotle chiles.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes & Stock
- Pour in fire-roasted tomatoes and beef stock.
- Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer for Flavor
- Cover partially and let cook for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add black beans in the last 30 minutes.
6. Finish with Chocolate
- Stir in cocoa powder or dark chocolate to enhance depth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt & black pepper.
7. Serve & Garnish
- Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, cheese, and fresh cilantro.
Notes
Mild Version: Reduce chipotle chiles and add extra tomatoes.
Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or shredded beef instead of ground beef.
More Veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or carrots for extra texture.
Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for lentils or mushrooms and use veggie broth.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 32 g