Imagine a chili so rich, so deeply satisfying that it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure. This Firestone Lamb and Black Bean Chili isn't just another recipe—it's a game-changing comfort food that will make your taste buds dance with excitement! Combining the robust, slightly gamey flavor of ground lamb with hearty black beans and a symphony of spices, this dish promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain the black beans and set aside.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground lamb and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the lamb and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the lamb mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat and distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and drained black beans. Stir to combine all ingredients completely.
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The chili should have a rich, deep flavor with the lamb providing a robust base.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground lamb for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Take time to properly brown the lamb - this develops deep, complex flavors.
- Toast your spices briefly before adding other ingredients to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Let the chili simmer slowly to allow flavors to meld and develop intensity.
- For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a small amount of dark chocolate or a splash of red wine during cooking.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings near the end of cooking for perfect balance.
- Allow the chili to rest for 10 minutes after cooking to let flavors fully integrate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
