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Copycat Chili's Black Beans
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Love the black beans served at Chili's? Try this copycat version, made with only 5 ingredients.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
2 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
2 cans (15.5 ounce size) black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
directions
Combine the beans, sugar, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder in a saucepan over medium-low heat. cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
To serve like Chili's does, place the beans on a plate in the middle. Top with a grilled chicken breast and a serving of rice on the side. Add some picadillo and sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips.
recipe tips
For a richer flavor, consider adding sauteed onions and peppers before adding the black beans and spices.
Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish.
Add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for a bright, acidic lift.
Serve the black beans with a side of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast.
If you like a smoky flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the beans.
Try using a slow cooker to blend the flavors together; cook on low for 4-6 hours for a more infused taste.
Drizzle some olive oil or hot sauce on top just before serving for added richness or spice.
Make a larger batch to use in meal prep for the week - black beans are versatile and can be added to various meals.
If you desire a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans when cooking them.
common recipe questions
Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them ahead of time. Typically, one cup of dried beans yields about two and a half cups when cooked.
What can I use instead of sugar in this recipe?
You can substitute honey, agave syrup, or leave it out completely if you prefer not to add sweeteners. The sweetness balances the spices but is not essential.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
You can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder or add other spicy ingredients like jalapenos or hot sauce.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Can I freeze black beans?
Yes, black beans freeze well. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the beans?
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat. If reheating from frozen, no need to thaw but heat over medium-low heat.
Is it possible to prepare the black beans ahead of time?
You can prepare the black beans in advance and store them in the fridge. They will often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
What is picadillo?
Picadillo is a combination of ground meat, potatoes, tomatoes, and spices that can be used as a topping for various dishes. It adds a savory contrast to the beans.
tools needed
Saucepan: A saucepan to combine the black beans and the spices over medium-low heat.
Measuring Spoons: To measure out the sugar, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
Colander: To rinse and drain the black beans before combining them with the other ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is helpful for stirring the beans and spices in the saucepan as they cook.
what goes with it?
Grilled Chicken Breast: Top the black beans with a grilled chicken breast to serve like Chili's does. The smoky flavors from the grill bring out the earthy taste of the black beans.
Steamed Rice: Serve alongside the black beans as a neutral base that balances the flavor. The rice will absorb the beans' seasonings.
Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole adds creaminess and freshness, providing a contrast to the hearty black beans. The avocado's fat content also helps mellow out the spices in the dish.
Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream adds richness and acidity, cutting through the beans' dense texture.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo brings brightness and acidity that lifts the heavier flavors of the beans.
Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the warm beans for added creaminess and a bit of sharpness. It melts beautifully over the warm black beans.
Tortilla Chips: Serve as a crunchy topping for the black beans or on the side for dipping.
Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the beans for an extra kick.
Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro as a garnish offers a burst of freshness, which helps balance the richness of the beans and adds an herbal note.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens the dish, accentuating the spices and providing a zesty contrast to the beans.
nutrition data
192 calories, 2 grams fat, 30 grams carbohydrates, 12 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in fat.
Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.
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reviews & comments
June 21, 2020
This was pretty good. don't know if it's like Chilis or not but it made a good and simple bean side dish
December 18, 2008
When I made this recipe, I was unsure whether of not to drain the black beans in the can. I decided to first not drain the beans and it was considerably too salty and the cumin was too strong! I tried the recipe again, drained the beans and used less cumin and the beans fell apart.
It says to rinse and drain the beans. If they "fell apart" you may have had the heat too high.
I think there's also a bit of fresh cilantro that's in the Chili's version.