Warm up your table with a hearty and nutritious bowl of Mexican Bean N Barley Chili—a vibrant fusion of classic chili flavors with the wholesome twist of pearl barley. Packed with protein-rich black beans and kidney beans, sweet morsels of corn, and a medley of smoky spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, this one-pot wonder is the ultimate comfort food. The pearl barley adds a satisfying chew and turns this chili into a fiber-filled, hearty meal perfect for cozy weeknights or meal prepping. Ready in under an hour, this vegetarian chili is easy to customize and pairs beautifully with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. Ideal for those seeking healthy, plant-based, and flavor-packed dinner recipes!
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Stir in the pearl barley, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender.
Once the barley is cooked, stir in the frozen corn kernels. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Season the chili with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Calories |
2587 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.1 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.2 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 16 mg | 5% | |
| Sodium | 7212 mg | 314% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 413.8 g | 150% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 113.1 g | 404% | |
| Total Sugars | 64.4 g | ||
| Protein | 97.3 g | 195% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 823 mg | 63% | |
| Iron | 34.3 mg | 191% | |
| Potassium | 7183 mg | 153% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.