Are you looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than slow cooker chili beans. This recipe is a staple of American cuisine, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. In this article, we’ll show you how to make delicious chili beans in a slow cooker, and provide you with some tips and variations to take your dish to the next level.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the benefits of using a slow cooker. Slow cookers are a great way to cook a meal because they’re easy to use, energy-efficient, and allow for hands-off cooking. Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Slow cookers are also great for cooking tougher cuts of meat, like beans, because they break down the connective tissues and make the meat tender and flavorful. This makes them perfect for cooking chili beans, which can be a bit tough if not cooked properly.
Choosing the Right Type of Beans
When it comes to making chili beans, the type of bean you use is important. There are several types of beans that you can use, including:
- Kidney beans: These are the most commonly used beans in chili recipes, and for good reason. They’re mild in flavor, hold their shape well, and are packed with protein and fiber.
- Pinto beans: These beans are similar to kidney beans, but have a mottled brown and white color. They’re also mild in flavor and hold their shape well.
- Black beans: These beans have a slightly sweet flavor and a soft, creamy texture. They’re a great choice if you want to add a bit of sweetness to your chili.
- Navy beans: These beans are small, white, and have a mild flavor. They’re a great choice if you want to make a traditional-style chili.
The Basic Recipe
Now that we’ve talked about the benefits of using a slow cooker and the different types of beans you can use, let’s move on to the basic recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound dried beans (any type)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ground beef, diced ham, or other protein sources
To make the chili beans, simply add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about chili beans is that you can customize them to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations and add-ins you might want to try:
- Ground beef or ground turkey: Brown the meat in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker for added flavor.
- Diced ham or bacon: Add a bit of smoky flavor to your chili beans with diced ham or bacon.
- Jalapenos or hot sauce: Add a bit of heat to your chili beans with diced jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Cilantro or scallions: Add a bit of freshness to your chili beans with chopped cilantro or scallions.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Add a bit of creaminess to your chili beans with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when making chili beans in a slow cooker:
- Soak the beans: If you’re using dried beans, be sure to soak them overnight before adding them to the slow cooker. This will help them cook more evenly and reduce the risk of digestive issues.
- Use a slow cooker liner: Slow cooker liners can make cleanup a breeze and prevent the beans from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker.
- Don’t overcook the beans: Chili beans can become mushy and unappetizing if they’re overcooked. Be sure to check the beans periodically and remove them from the heat when they’re tender.
- Experiment with spices: Chili beans are a great canvas for experimenting with different spices and seasonings. Don’t be afraid to try new things and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Chili beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Over rice: Serve the chili beans over a bed of rice for a filling and flavorful meal.
- With cornbread: Chili beans and cornbread are a classic combination. Simply slice the cornbread and serve it on the side.
- In a bowl: Serve the chili beans in a bowl and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions.
- As a dip: Chili beans can also be served as a dip for chips or crackers. Simply transfer the beans to a serving bowl and serve with your favorite dippers.
Conclusion
Slow cooker chili beans are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With their rich, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit your tastes. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Additional Resources
If you’re looking for more slow cooker recipes or tips and tricks for cooking with beans, be sure to check out the following resources:
- How to Cook Dried Beans from Epicurious
- Slow Cooker Recipes from Food Network
- Bean Recipes from the Bean Institute
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on slow cooker chili beans. Happy cooking!
What is the best type of beans to use for slow cooker chili beans?
The best type of beans to use for slow cooker chili beans is a matter of personal preference. You can use kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of different types of beans. Kidney beans are a popular choice because they hold their shape well and have a mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the chili.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your chili, you can use a combination of beans, such as kidney beans and black beans. Black beans have a slightly sweet flavor and a softer texture than kidney beans, which can add some variety to the dish. You can also use pinto beans, which have a mild flavor and a creamy texture.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker chili beans?
The cooking time for slow cooker chili beans can vary depending on the type of slow cooker you use and the level of doneness you prefer. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours to cook the chili beans on low heat and 3-4 hours on high heat. You can also cook the chili beans on low heat overnight and wake up to a delicious and ready-to-eat meal.
It’s also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of beans you use. For example, kidney beans may take longer to cook than black beans. You can check the beans for doneness by tasting them and adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Can I add ground beef or other meats to the slow cooker chili beans?
Yes, you can add ground beef or other meats to the slow cooker chili beans. In fact, adding ground beef or other meats can add some extra flavor and texture to the dish. You can brown the ground beef or other meats before adding them to the slow cooker, or you can add them directly to the slow cooker and let them cook with the beans.
Some other meats you can add to the slow cooker chili beans include ground turkey, ground pork, or diced chicken. You can also add some bacon or sausage to give the chili a smoky flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.
How can I make the slow cooker chili beans spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can make the slow cooker chili beans spicier by adding some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot. You can also add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the chili an extra kick.
Another way to make the slow cooker chili beans spicier is to use hot sauce, such as sriracha or hot sauce of your choice. You can add a few dashes of hot sauce to the chili and adjust to taste. You can also add some diced green chilies or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give the chili a smoky heat.
Can I make the slow cooker chili beans in advance?
Yes, you can make the slow cooker chili beans in advance. In fact, making the chili beans ahead of time can allow the flavors to meld together and the beans to absorb all the flavors. You can cook the chili beans a day or two in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve.
To reheat the chili beans, simply place them in the slow cooker and heat them on low for a few hours. You can also reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and add any additional ingredients as needed.
How can I serve the slow cooker chili beans?
There are many ways to serve the slow cooker chili beans. You can serve them as a main dish, accompanied by some crusty bread or cornbread. You can also serve them as a side dish, alongside some grilled meats or vegetables.
Another way to serve the slow cooker chili beans is to use them as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos. You can also use them as a filling for tacos or burritos. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and add any additional ingredients as needed.
Can I freeze the slow cooker chili beans?
Yes, you can freeze the slow cooker chili beans. In fact, freezing the chili beans is a great way to preserve them for later use. You can freeze the chili beans in airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen chili beans, simply place them in the slow cooker and heat them on low for a few hours. You can also reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and add any additional ingredients as needed.