Metabolism-Boosting Spicy Black Bean Chili

This Spicy Black Bean Chili recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty dish while boosting their metabolism. The chili’s metabolism-boosting properties come from the spices, like cayenne pepper, which allows your body to burn calories to produce heat. Despite all its flavours, the recipe is surprisingly easy, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 medium bell pepper 
• 1 medium jalapeño
• 1 large sweet potato
• 1 zucchini
• 1 tablespoon chilli powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cans black beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce 
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Greek yoghurt or sour cream
• Shredded cheese
• Chopped green onions

• 8-10 corn tortillas

Method:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it starts to become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the diced sweet potato and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sweet potato to start softening.
3. Stir in the chilli powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavours.
4. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Mix well to combine. Bring the chilli to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, hot sauce (if using), red pepper flakes, and frozen corn. If you’re using cocoa powder, add it at this stage for extra depth of flavour. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
6. In the meantime, cut each tortilla into 6 wedges to create tortilla chips. Place the tortilla wedges in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly. Spread the tortilla wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and any other desired seasonings. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
7. Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference. Ladle the chilli into bowls, garnish with your choice of toppings, and serve with a side of guacamole.

The Recipe that Boosts Metabolism:

• Black beans: these beans are rich in plant-based protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you full. They are also high in fibre, aiding digestion, promoting gut health, and helping regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, black beans have a low glycemic index, which helps in managing blood sugar levels, preventing spikes and crashes.
• Sweet potatoes: sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy without spiking blood sugar. They are high in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports immune function and eye health. Sweet potatoes are also rich in fibre, promoting digestive health and satiety.
• Jalapeños: they contain capsaicin, which boosts metabolism by increasing thermogenesis, or calorie burning. Jalapeños are also rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health.
• Chilli powder: it contains capsaicin, which increases metabolism and fat burning, and is rich in antioxidants that support overall health and reduce inflammation.
• Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper boosts metabolism thanks to its capsaicin content, which helps burn more calories. It also supports digestion by stimulating digestive tract health.
• Avocado: avocado is high in healthy fats, which support heart health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. It is also rich in fibre, promoting satiety and digestive health, and contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle function.