February 8, 2024

Hearty & Healthy: The Best Beef and Bean Chili Recipe

N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Warm Up Your Kitchen with the Perfect Comfort Food

As a Registered Dietitian and a true food enthusiast, I’m thrilled to bring you one of the most heartwarming, nutritious dishes in my collection: Beef and Bean Chili. Not only is this dish a testament to tradition, but it also embodies nutrition, making it the ideal fit for nearly any meal plan. Join me as we explore the story behind this iconic recipe, its impressive nutritional profile, versatile serving ideas, expert cooking tips, and food safety essentials.

The Rich History Behind Beef and Bean Chili

Rooted deeply in Tex-Mex culinary tradition, Beef and Bean Chili is a flavorful fusion of Mexican and American tastes. Its origins trace back to Texas in the 1800s, with the “Chili Queens” of San Antonio captivating crowds with their spicy stews served from bustling market stands. Their concoctions quickly became a symbol of comfort and simplicity, beloved by all for their rich, savory flavors.

Chili’s enduring popularity owes much to its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or simply craving a bowl of something warm and satisfying, chili fits the bill. It’s hearty, it’s wholesome, and it’s endlessly adaptable—qualities that have kept it on dinner tables for generations.

Why Beef and Bean Chili Remains a Staple

In today’s culinary landscape, chili’s timeless appeal lies in its blend of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. As the weather cools, many of us look for warming, hearty dishes, and Beef and Bean Chili checks every box. It’s protein-rich, fiber-filled, and customizable for any palate—whether you like it spicy, mild, or somewhere in between.

Plus, the rise of health-conscious eating has positioned this dish in the spotlight. Beans offer an affordable, plant-based protein and fiber source, while lean beef provides key nutrients like iron and B vitamins. This balance of flavors and nutrition makes Beef and Bean Chili the perfect combination of traditional comfort food and modern wellness.

The Ingredients: Seasonal, Local, and Nutrient-Dense

Classic Beef and Bean Chili brings together tender beef chuck, hearty kidney beans, and a variety of dried chiles—including Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol—for an incredible depth of flavor. These chiles create a rich, smoky base that is complemented by aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and oregano.

Whenever possible, consider choosing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Fresh, locally grown onions, garlic, and peppers can enhance the flavor while also supporting sustainability. This recipe also invites a lot of creativity—swap out beef chuck for ground beef to speed things up, or even opt for ground turkey or more beans for a leaner, plant-based version.

Key Ingredients:

Peppers: Ancho, Guajillo, Chiles de arbol for a smoky, layered heat.
Beef: Beef chuck cut into cubes for rich flavor and tender texture.
Beans: Kidney beans add fiber and plant protein, creating a hearty texture.
Aromatics & Spices: Onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, oregano, star anise, and cloves contribute to the dish’s complexity.

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

Warm up with this tender beef and bean chili made with aromatic spices and dried chilies. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings!

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: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Soak in hot water until rehydrated, then blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over high heat, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and jalapenos to the same pot. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add cumin, coriander, and oregano; cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add chili paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef stock. Stir in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
Simmer: Add bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld.
Add Beans: Add kidney beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm through.
Season to Taste: Remove bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Serve hot. Optional garnishes include sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.

Notes

Tips and Variations

Spice Level: For a milder chili, reduce the number of Chiles de arbol or remove seeds.
Substitute: Replace beef chuck with ground beef for a quicker version (reduce cook time to 1 hour).
Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with extra beans and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
Additions: A splash of dark beer can add extra depth to the flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Allergen Information

Contains Soy: Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Contains Worcestershire Sauce: Some versions may contain anchovies; omit or use a vegan Worcestershire for a fish-free option.

This hearty beef and bean chili is perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings. It’s a comforting dish that can be customized to suit different tastes—feel free to adjust the heat or add your favorite toppings!

Red Bean Chili

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Nutritional Benefits of Beef and Bean Chili

Beef and Bean Chili is a nutritional powerhouse that marries high-quality protein, fiber, and beneficial plant compounds in one dish. The beef provides essential nutrients, such as iron, which supports oxygen transport, and zinc, important for immune function. The kidney beans are packed with dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

Additionally, the chiles and spices don’t just add a depth of flavor—they’re also rich in antioxidants that can help combat inflammation and support overall well-being. By choosing low-sodium canned tomatoes and beans, you can make this dish even more heart-friendly.

Creative Serving Ideas

Beef and Bean Chili’s adaptability makes it a star on any table. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Over Grains: Spoon your chili over brown rice, quinoa, or even farro for an extra boost of whole grains.
Chili Baked Potatoes: Top a fluffy baked potato with a ladle of chili for a comforting, all-in-one meal.
With Cornbread: Classic cornbread, crispy around the edges and tender inside, is the ideal side to soak up all those rich flavors.
On a Salad: Lighten things up by serving a scoop of chili over a bed of crisp greens, adding a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.

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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.

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Expert Cooking Tips for the Perfect Chili

Toast Your Spices: Toasting cumin, coriander, and oregano in a dry skillet for a minute before adding them to your chili can bring out their full, aromatic flavors.
Use Dark Beer: For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of dark beer while simmering—it adds richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
Vegetarian Substitutes: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with a mix of black, pinto, and kidney beans, and swap the beef stock for vegetable broth.
Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder chili, reduce the number of Chiles de arbol or remove the seeds before toasting.

Food Safety Essentials

Food safety is key when preparing and storing Beef and Bean Chili. Here are a few essentials:

Cook Thoroughly: Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Safe Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Chili keeps well in the fridge for up to four days.
Reheating: Reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F, whether on the stovetop or in the microwave.

In Conclusion

Beef and Bean Chili is more than just a bowl of food—it’s a celebration of cultural heritage, nutritional goodness, and culinary versatility. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a gathering of friends, or simply to meal prep for the week, it’s a dish that offers comfort, sustenance, and satisfaction. So, why not try it out today? This classic, with its perfect balance of flavors and nutrients, might just become your next favorite go-to recipe.