White Bean Chili: Where Has This Bean Your Whole Life?

White Bean Chili

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 small red onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tbsp. dried oregano
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed and diced
  • 1 14-oz can white beans (such as Great Northern Beans), drained and rinsed
  • 1 14-oz can whole corn, drained and rinsed
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

Optional garnishes: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado.

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Add the red onion and minced garlic and saute over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add the chili powder and oregano; and stir well. Stir in the ground beef and cook over high heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the diced tomatoes and water; bring to a boil. 

Add the diced bell pepper, beans and corn and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili has thickened to your liking. Add salt to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro leaves.

Ladle into bowls, and top with your favorite chili garnishes.