Molasses Rum-Infused Black Bean Chili

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-05 · Updated 2026-06-05

Hearty black bean chili simmered with dark rum and molasses for a deep, smoky flavor with a touch of sweetness. This Latin American-inspired beef recipe, ready in about 60 minutes, pairs black beans, cooked, ground beef, dark rum for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 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

• 3 cups black beans, cooked
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup dark rum
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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 red bell pepper, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Step 4: Pour in 1/4 cup dark rum and 2 tbsp molasses, stirring to combine and cook for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Step 5: Add 3 cups cooked black beans, 14 oz canned diced tomatoes, and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 30 minutes until chili thickens and flavors meld.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving with your favorite toppings.