Chili Mexican Beans
My version of Chili con Carne, minus the meat! A nourishing, rich, high protein dish perfect served with plain rice or tacos. Recently I tried this dish with plant based mince – I subbed out one can of beans and used the mince and it was amazing.
The below recipes is with kidney beans but if you love plant-based mince, give it a go!
Chili Mexican Beans
Ingredients
- 2 cans kidney beans
- 1 white onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 red capsicum
- 1 birdseye chili (optional)
- 2 cobs corn - kernels use frozen corn
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 bottle tomato passata
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
Method
- Finely chop onion, garlic and capsicum.
- Remove the kernels from the corn by placing corn upright, and taking the knife down the cob, under the corn (or use frozen corn kernels)
- Saute onion and cumin seeds in a saucepan. Cook until onion becomes translucent and the cumin seeds start to brown.
- Add chopped garlic. Cook for one minute.
- Add paprika, turmeric, salt, and coriander powder. Stir until onion and garlic is coated in spices.
- Then add ¼ cup of the tomato passata. Cook for a couple of minutes until the mixture forms a tomato spiced paste.
- Then add the capsicum, corn and kidney beans. Mix together.
- Pour in the rest of the passata and cook on medium heat for about 25 minutes. Add fresh chili if you like a bit of spice.
- Dry roast in a saucepan the almonds.
- Top dish with fresh coriander and almonds.
- Serve with Mexican tacos or plain rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of plant-based mince would work well as a substitute for one can of kidney beans?
Plant-based mince is an excellent addition to this recipe if you're looking to add a meaty texture. Options like lentil-based, soy-based, or pea-based ground "beef" are readily available. Simply brown the plant-based mince in a separate pan before adding it to the chili mixture. This addition can provide an extra layer of flavour and protein to your dish.
Are there any recommended toppings or garnishes to enhance the flavour and presentation of the chili?
Absolutely! Toppings and garnishes can take your chili to the next level. Consider these options: - **Fresh Avocado:** Sliced or cubed avocado adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the spicy chili. - **Vegan Sour Cream:** A dollop of vegan sour cream can balance the heat and provide a tangy element. - **Fresh Lime:** A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavours. - **Chopped Fresh Cilantro:** Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and colour. - **Sliced Jalapeños:** For those who enjoy extra heat, sliced jalapeños are a great choice.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the chili to my preference?
Certainly! You have control over the level of spiciness in your chili. Here are some tips: - **Chili Pepper:** Adjust the quantity of birdseye chili or omit it entirely for a milder version. - **Spices:** The paprika and cumin seeds can also affect the spiciness. Reduce the amount of paprika or use a mild paprika variety for a less spicy chili. - **Chili Powder:** If you like a bolder chili flavour, consider adding some chili powder. Start with a small amount and increase to your desired level of heat. Your Chili Mexican Beans recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit various taste preferences. Whether you prefer it mild or fiery, with plant-based mince or extra beans, it's sure to be a satisfying and flavourful dish. Enjoy your chili with rice or as a filling for tacos. If you have any more questions or need further suggestions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!
