Mid-America Corn and Black Bean Chili

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-05 · Updated 2026-08-05

A hearty, smoky chili featuring sweet corn and black beans inspired by the diverse ingredients from the Mid-America region. This American-inspired soup recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 50 minutes, pairs olive oil, yellow onion, green bell pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 1 medium, diced green bell pepper
• 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1.5 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (canned)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced yellow onion and 1 medium diced green bell pepper, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tbsp chili powder, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in 2 cups drained and rinsed black beans, 1.5 cups corn kernels, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, and 2 cups vegetable broth. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
4. Step 4: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp fresh lime juice and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot.