Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

Canned Beans (3 cans, drained and rinsed) – Use a mix of black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans for variety.
Diced Tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 oz each) – Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra flavor.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Creates a thick and rich base.
Vegetable Broth (2 cups) – Helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Bell Peppers (2, diced) – Red, yellow, or green for color and sweetness.
Onion (1 large, chopped) – A key ingredient for depth of flavor.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Enhances the aromatic profile.
Carrots (2, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and nutrients.
Corn (1 cup, optional) – For a slightly sweet, crunchy texture.
Chili Powder (2 tbsp) – The signature spice for bold chili flavor.
Cumin (1 tbsp) – Adds warm, earthy notes.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Gives a subtle smoky taste.
Oregano (1 tsp) – Balances the herbal flavors.
Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasoning.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For sautéing aromatics before slow cooking.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Sweet Potatoes (1 medium, diced) – Adds fiber and sweetness.
Zucchini (1 small, chopped) – A great veggie addition.
Jalapeños (1, finely chopped) – For a spicy kick.
Cocoa Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances richness.
Lime Juice (1 tbsp, added at the end) – Brightens the dish.
Maple Syrup (1 tbsp) – Balances acidity.

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients
Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess sodium. Chop the onion, bell peppers, carrots, and garlic for even cooking. Measure out the spices in a small bowl for easy mixing.

2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika and stir for about 30 seconds to enhance their flavors. Transfer to the slow cooker.

3️⃣ Assemble Everything in the Crock Pot
Add the beans, chopped vegetables, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.

4️⃣ Slow Cook to Perfection

Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours for deep, rich flavors.
Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours if short on time.
Stir occasionally if possible.

5️⃣ Final Touches Before Serving
Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if too thick, or cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes if too thin. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in lime juice for brightness.

6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

Notes

Enhance Flavor: Sautéing onions, garlic, and spices before slow cooking deepens the flavor.
For a Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or cayenne.
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Thickening Tip: Mash some of the beans or let the chili cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 14g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg