February 8, 2024

Hearty & Healthy: The Best Beef and Bean Chili Recipe

As a Registered Dietitian and food and nutrition aficionado, I’m excited to explore one of the most heartwarming and robust dishes out there: Beef and Bean Chili. More than just a culinary delight, this dish is a testament to tradition, a nod to nutritional wisdom, and a perfect fit for any diet. Join me as we dive deep into the essence of this beloved recipe, uncovering its rich history, impressive nutritional profile, versatile serving suggestions, expert cooking tips, and essential food safety advice.

The Rich Tapestry of Beef and Bean Chili

Rooted in the vibrant Tex-Mex culinary tradition, Beef and Bean Chili is a flavorful melding of Mexican and American tastes, born in the heart of Texas. Crafted by the legendary “Chili Queens” of San Antonio in the 1800s, this dish quickly became a symbol of comfort and simplicity, winning hearts with its rich flavors.

The Enduring Popularity of Chili

The timeless appeal of Beef and Bean Chili lies in its versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting warmth. A cold-weather staple, it adapts beautifully to various dietary needs, making it a perennial favorite across generations.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

The traditional Beef and Bean Chili melds beef chuck with kidney beans, Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol, alongside a bouquet of spices like cumin, coriander, and oregano. This rich blend doesn’t just tantalize the taste buds; it also offers a spectrum of nutritional benefits.

Hearty Beef and Bean Chili Recipe: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Dive into the warmth and richness of our Hearty Beef and Bean Chili, a classic comfort food recipe that combines tender beef chuck with a harmonious blend of Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol. This meticulously crafted dish is simmered to perfection, integrating aromatic onions, garlic, and jalapenos with a robust blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and oregano. The addition of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and a touch of soy and Worcestershire sauces enriches the flavor palette, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion, this beef and bean chili is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Course Meats, Rice, Potatoes, and Beans

Cuisine American

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 3

Servings 8

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

Peppers:
4-6 Ancho peppers
4-6 Guajillo peppers
4-6 Chiles de arbol
Beef:
4 pounds Beef chuck cut into cubes
Aromatics:
2 large Onions 1/4 inch dice
8 cloves Garlic minced
2 Jalapenos 1/8 dice seeds removed for less heat
Spices:
2 tsp Cumin
2 tsp Coriander
2 tsp Oregano
2 Star anise
3 cloves
2 Bay leaves
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste
Liquids:
2 15- ounce cans Diced tomatoes
1 15- ounce can Tomato sauce
1 cup Beef stock
1 tbsp Soy Sauce
A dash of Worcestershire Sauce
Beans:
2 15- ounce cans Kidney beans drained and rinsed

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers: Toast the Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol in a dry skillet over medium heat until they begin to emit a fragrant aroma. Soak them in hot water until they're rehydrated, then blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large pot over high heat, sear the beef cubes until they are browned on all sides. This process helps to develop a deep, rich flavor in the meat. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add the onions, garlic, and jalapenos to the same pot. Sauté until they are soft and translucent. Stir in cumin, coriander, and oregano, and cook for an additional minute until the mixture becomes fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the prepared chili paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef stock. Stir in the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
Simmer: Incorporate bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Cover and simmer the mixture on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, allowing the flavors to blend thoroughly.
Add Beans: Mix in the kidney beans during the last 30 minutes of the cooking process to warm through and become tender.
Season to Taste: Before serving, remove the bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
Serve: Serve the chili hot. Offer optional garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions to complement the dish.

Notes

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Beef and Bean Chili, perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering!

Red Bean Chili

This easy-to-follow red bean chili recipe with ground beef is a flavorful and comforting meal. With simple instructions, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Customize it to your liking with your favorite toppings.

Check out this recipe

Nutritional Powerhouse

Beef and Bean Chili is a nutritional dynamo. High-quality beef protein supports muscle health, while kidney beans add fiber, enhancing digestion and satiety. The spices? They’re not just for flavor—they pack antioxidants, too, bolstering overall well-being.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

This dish’s adaptability makes it perfect for any occasion. Serve it over whole-grain rice or quinoa, atop baked potatoes, or simply with a side of cornbread. For a lighter take, ladle it over a crisp green salad.

Classic Southern Cornbread

Capture the essence of Southern cuisine with our Classic Southern Cornbread recipe. A delightful blend of crispy edges and tender goodness awaits. Perfect for gatherings or everyday meals.

Check out this recipe

Expert Cooking Tips

For an extra flavor punch, toast your spices before adding them to the mix. And to keep things heart-healthy, opt for low-sodium beans and tomatoes. These simple tweaks can elevate your chili to new heights.

Food Safety Essentials

Safety is paramount when preparing Beef and Bean Chili. Ensure the beef reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F, and store leftovers in the fridge promptly. Consumed within 3-4 days, your chili remains not just delicious, but safe.

In Conclusion

Embracing Beef and Bean Chili is more than just relishing a delicious meal—it’s about celebrating a rich cultural heritage, indulging in a nutritionally balanced diet, and enjoying a dish that’s both flavorful and healthful. It’s a choice that satisfies the soul, nourishes the body, and honors a tradition of culinary excellence.

Whether you’re a culinary expert or just starting out, Beef and Bean Chili invites you to explore rich flavors while sticking to healthful eating principles. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the quest for a balanced, nutritious diet.