Pinto Bean Chili

Ingredients

• Optional toppings: (shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions)
• Water (1 cup)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin (1 tablespoon)
• Chili powder (2 tablespoons)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Canned diced tomatoes (1 can (14.5 oz))
• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Bell pepper (1, diced)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1, diced)
• Pinto beans (2 cups, cooked)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
5. Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked pinto beans, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve the pinto bean chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired.