Black Bean & Porter Chili (Vegan): Smoky, Hearty, and Beer-Backed

— A Plant-Based Chili That Goes Big on Flavor

This Black Bean & Porter Chili brings deep, roasted character from a dark beer and layers of umami from fire-roasted tomatoes, smoked spices, and earthy black beans.

It’s 100% vegan, but nothing about it is light — it’s rich, filling, and built for cozy nights, game days, or any time you want a meatless meal that still pairs perfectly with a pint.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp oregano
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cans (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup porter or stout (smooth and roasty, not overly bitter)
• ½ cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari for umami depth
• Optional: pinch of cocoa powder for richness

Toppings (All Vegan)

• Diced avocado or guacamole
• Chopped cilantro
• Pickled onions or jalapeños
• Vegan sour cream or cashew cream
• Crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook 1 minute more until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Chili

1. Stir in tomato paste and cook another 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
2. Add black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, beer, broth, and optional soy sauce or cocoa powder.
3. Stir well, bring to a low boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Serve

1. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and a cold beer on the side.

Flavor Variations

• Add roasted sweet potato or butternut squash for a hearty, sweet balance
• Stir in corn or green chiles for texture and pop
• For spice, add chipotle in adobo or cayenne
• Use lentils or quinoa for extra protein and body

Beer Pairing

In the Pot

• Porter, dry stout, or schwarzbier — smooth and roasted
• Avoid overly bitter or high-ABV beers (like double IPAs)

In Your Glass

• Same beer used in the chili
• Try a coffee porter or chocolate stout for dessert-like contrast
• Amber ale or Belgian dubbel for a maltier sidekick

Final Thoughts

Black Bean & Porter Chili proves that vegan chili doesn’t mean flavor compromise. It’s smoky, filling, and balanced by the depth of a dark beer — perfect for when you want something bold, plant-based, and beer-friendly in every bite.

No meat, no dairy, no problem — just big chili energy in a beer-soaked bowl. 🫘🔥🍺

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