One-Pot & Pantry Meals
Smoky Mixed Bean Chili
A meat-free chili with two kinds of beans, peppers, and a rich tomato base.
Two cans of beans are the starting point for a chili that feels substantial without requiring meat. A little tomato paste gives the sauce depth, while smoked paprika supplies a warm smoky note.
Chili powders vary widely in heat and salt. The small amount below is a cautious starting point. You can add more once the pot has simmered, but you cannot easily remove heat after it is in.
THE RECIPE
Smoky Mixed Bean Chili
Amounts scale automatically. Keep piece sizes similar; pan size and cooking time may need adjustment. Round whole ingredients sensibly.
Ingredients
Canned bean and chickpea amounts refer to the can label weight before draining.
Method
Cook the vegetables
Warm oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook onion and pepper for 7 minutes until softened.
Toast the seasonings
Add garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Stir for 1 minute.
Simmer the chili
Add tomatoes, both beans, and stock. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Finish and serve
Mash a spoonful of beans into the sauce if you want more body. Taste for salt and heat, then serve with rice, bread, or baked potatoes.
Small details that help
Use canned kidney beans
They are already cooked. Raw dry kidney beans require a separate safe preparation method and cannot be swapped straight into this recipe.
Tomato paste needs a brief cook
A minute in the pan helps remove its raw edge.
Leave space in the pot
Thick tomato sauce can bubble and spit; use a pot with room above the ingredients.
Substitutions & ways to make it yours
Other beans
Pinto beans or white beans can replace either can.
No smoked paprika
Use sweet paprika for a milder flavor.
Add corn
Stir in drained sweetcorn near the end for a little sweetness.
A couple of useful questions
Can I make it hotter?
Add chili gradually after tasting. A hot sauce served separately lets each person choose.
What if it gets too thick?
Add water a little at a time and stir. Thickening continues as it cools.
