Hey there! If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s both super satisfying and packed with protein, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re making a delicious beef and black bean chili. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out and keeps you feeling full and energized.
This chili isn’t just about tasting good; it’s a fantastic way to get a good dose of protein, which is crucial for keeping your body running smoothly, especially if you’re active. It’s simple to make and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal without a lot of fuss. We’ll go through everything step-by-step, so even if you’re new to cooking, you can whip this up with confidence.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing beef and black bean chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef (88% lean is great)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step By Step Making
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious chili:
- Brown the Beef: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned.
- Add Veggies: Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook them with the beef for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften up a bit.
- Garlic Power: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
- Combine Everything: Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, drained black beans, and drained kidney beans.
- Spice It Up: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Give it all a good mix so the spices are well distributed.
- Simmer Time: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will blend together beautifully.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chili and add salt and black pepper as needed. Serve it hot! This chili is great on its own or with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some fresh cilantro. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. If you’re looking for more easy dinner ideas, check out these Easy Baked Cod with Colorful Veggies for another healthy option.
Nutritional Value
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:
- Protein: Around 29 grams. This is a great amount to help you feel full and support your muscles.
- Calories: Approximately 363 kcal. It’s a hearty meal that provides good energy.
- Carbs: Roughly 26 grams. This includes fiber from the beans and veggies, which is good for digestion.
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use and the exact serving size.
Health Benefits
Eating a high-protein meal like this beef and black bean chili offers some fantastic benefits for your health and fitness goals.
First off, the protein in this chili is a rockstar for muscle building and repair. When you work out, your muscles get tiny tears, and protein is what your body uses to fix them and make them stronger. So, having enough protein helps you recover faster and build lean muscle mass over time.
The beans in this chili are loaded with dietary fiber. Fiber is super important for keeping your digestive system happy and running smoothly. It also helps you feel fuller for longer, which can be a big help if you’re trying to manage your weight. Plus, fiber can help keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Beef provides essential nutrients like iron, which is vital for carrying oxygen in your blood and keeping your energy levels up. The tomatoes and peppers bring in vitamins and antioxidants, like vitamin C and lycopene, which help support your immune system and protect your body’s cells from damage.
This chili is a well-rounded meal that supports not just muscle growth but also overall well-being. It’s a tasty way to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to perform at its best. You can find more great recipes and healthy eating tips at Azeely.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by azeely.com for general informational purposes only.
