Slow Cooker Black Bean Chili

[SunsetRunner]

I'm a semi-professional cook and I have had to start looking at some healthier recipes sicne I started my own diet in January.  I like high protein meals that are relatively low in carbs, but I'm not into super-low carb diets.  I have been quite successful in losing weight just by keeping carbs, fats, and proteins within the guidelines set on the Fitbit site.  I DO try to get extra proteins whenever possible because that helps keep the other two in check. Here's my easy recipe for this black bean chili and it's delicious!

2 tbsp Vegetable Oil

6 cloves of minced garlic

1 medium onion, coarsely chopped

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

1 to 2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 bay leaf

28 ounce can of diced tomatoes

1 tsp salt

1 1/2 cups of water

6 ounces tomato paste

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 16oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed

2 16oz cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed

3 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, grated (use 1/2 oz per serving as a garnish)

Chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions:

Heat the oil in a skillet and saute the onions, garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute, then add chili powder and cumin and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.  (You may need to add 1/4 cup of water after you add the dry ingredients depending on your particular cook).

Add this mixture to the slow cooker along with all remaining ingredients except canned beans and garnishes. Stir well and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in canned beans about an hour before serving.

Notes:

Before you serve this dish, taste it to see if it needs more salt.  This recipe is not particularly healthy for anyone who might be on a low sodium diet, but this recipe does contain a very significant amount of potassium.  Reducing this serving size to 1 cup instead of 1 1/2 cup brings the calorie count per serving down to about 360 calories per serving.  

I was really pleased with this recipe and I plan to do it again.  I fed myself and my girlfriend dinner with it and have 4 containers leftover that went in the freezer that I can reheat for lunch or take to work with me for dinner.  

[kelfran]

Wow, that looks awesome! I love crockpot chili and will definitely give this recipe a try. Thank you for sharing!

[Nicou]

Yum-Yum it look so good! 

You may want to also try  the quinoa chili from **ahem** delicious on pinterest. It is so gooood!

[Nicou]

Oops! **ahem** delicious is the website

[Nicou]

That was weird it doesnt want to let me write the word d a m n 

[VivisFitbit]

Hello there guys!  @SunsetRunner OMG It looks delicious, I have to try, thanks for sharing this owesome recipe with our Community. I'll definitely give a try (taking note of the ingredients ) Remember you're always welcome to share your experiences. 

[SandyLG]

Looks Yummy!!!

[Mcore]

Now I'm hungry.  That looks amazingly delicious, thank you for sharing @SunsetRunner!