How to Make a Hearty Pork and Bean Chili: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Chili is one of those comforting dishes that makes you feel warm and satisfied any time of the year. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, a hearty pork and bean chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and uses everyday ingredients.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make a delicious pork and bean chili. We’ll keep everything simple, so you can whip up this dish without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s get started!
Why Pork and Beans?
Pork adds a rich, savory flavor to chili that pairs beautifully with tender, creamy beans. Not only does this combination taste amazing, but pork tends to cook quickly and absorbs all the spices, making every bite flavorful. Beans add hearty texture and provide a good source of fiber and protein, so they’re a healthy addition too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before getting cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground pork
Ground pork is easy to cook and has a mild flavor that works great for chili. If you prefer chunky chili, you can use diced pork instead. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
For sautéing the pork and vegetables. - 1 medium onion, diced
The onion adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the chili. - 3 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic provides an irresistible aroma and enhances the overall taste. - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color will do)
Bell peppers add a pop of color and a slight sweetness to your chili. - 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
Tomatoes create the base of your chili and give it a tangy flavor. - 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
For a smooth, rich texture. - 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans
Kidney beans are perfect for chili, but you can swap them for black beans, pinto beans, or your favorite variety. - 1 teaspoon chili powder
Chili powder is the spice that defines this dish. Adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For a smoky, slightly sweet kick. - 1 teaspoon cumin
Adds warmth and depth to the chili spices. - ½ teaspoon oregano
Oregano adds a subtle herbal touch that balances the flavors. - 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
To keep the chili moist and simmer the ingredients. - Salt and pepper to taste
Basic seasonings to bring everything together.
Optional:
Top your chili with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of fresh cilantro for extra flair!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s how:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Open your canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beans. Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess salt. Set everything aside so you’re ready to go.
Step 2: Brown the Pork
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Season the meat lightly with salt and pepper. Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook them in the leftover oil and pork juices for 4–5 minutes, or until softened. Stir occasionally so they don’t stick or burn. This step builds flavor and creates a flavorful base for your chili.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Next, stir in the can of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to release the fragrance of the spices.
Step 5: Add the Pork and Beans
Return the browned pork to the pot and carefully add the kidney beans. Pour in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth to keep everything moist. Stir well to combine. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Simmer and Taste
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chili seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth.
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the pork and bean chili into bowls and serve it warm. Pair it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, steamed rice, or cornbread for a complete meal. You can also garnish your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or sour cream for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Make it your own: Feel free to add extra ingredients like corn, jalapeños, or carrots if you want to customize the recipe.
- Spiciness: If you like your chili fiery, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili peppers.
- Make ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch, refrigerate the leftovers, and enjoy it throughout the week.
Conclusion
Making a hearty pork and bean chili doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can put together a flavorful and satisfying meal that will warm both your heart and stomach. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving comfort food, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!
