Description
This Mexican Pinto Bean Chili is a hearty, protein-packed dish bursting with bold flavors. Made with pinto beans, tomatoes, peppers, and warming spices, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for cozy nights. Whether served on its own, over rice, or with tortilla chips, this chili is a healthy and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
-
2 cups dried pinto beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 medium onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
-
1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)
-
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
-
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
-
3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
-
1 tbsp chili powder
-
1 tsp cumin
-
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
-
1/2 tsp oregano
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1/2 cup corn (optional)
-
1/2 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
-
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beans
-
If using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight, then drain and rinse.
-
Cook in boiling water until tender (about 1.5–2 hours), then drain.
-
-
Sauté the Vegetables
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
-
Add diced onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
-
If using, add jalapeño for extra spice.
-
-
Add Tomatoes and Spices
-
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper).
-
-
Simmer the Chili
-
Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
-
Add pinto beans and corn (if using).
-
Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
-
-
Finish and Serve
-
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges
-
Notes
-
For a smoky flavor, add 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
-
Serve with tortilla chips, rice, or warm cornbread for a complete meal.
-
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg