Black Bean Chili With Rice
A hearty black bean chili with smoky ham and spices, served over rice—perfect for a comforting, flavorful meal that suits busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped green pepper, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
- Cook and stir until crisp and tender.
- Stir in drained black beans, undrained whole tomatoes, chopped ham, dried oregano, ground cayenne pepper, and bay leaf.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve the bean mixture over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding corn or diced zucchini. If you don't have cooked ham, cooked chicken or turkey can be great substitutes. Adjust the cayenne based on your spice preference, or use a dash of chili powder for a milder flavor. Serve with some crusty bread for a complete meal. Explore more Mexican recipes for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the black bean chili over fluffy cooked rice, which helps to absorb the flavors. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices for added richness. This dish pairs beautifully with Alvin'S Guacamole Dip and tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. A side salad could also complement the chili nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it to prevent splatters, for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Bean Chili With Rice contains roughly 715 calories, with 20g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (166% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 46g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water if desired. The black beans provide plenty of protein, and you can enhance the flavor with additional spices or by adding extra vegetables.
What type of rice works best with this chili?
Long-grain white rice or brown rice are both excellent choices. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, while white rice cooks faster and provides a light base for the chili.
Can I freeze the leftover chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).