When it comes to planning a delicious and satisfying dinner, few dishes can rival the comfort and flavor of a classic slow - cooker chili. And what better ingredient to elevate this timeless recipe than black beans? These little legumes pack a nutritional punch and add a unique texture and depth of flavor to the chili.

Black beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world, known for their high protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. In the context of a slow - cooker chili, they soak up all the rich, savory flavors of the other ingredients as they simmer slowly over time. The slow - cooking process allows the beans to become tender while still maintaining their shape, creating a hearty and substantial base for the chili.

To start making this mouth - watering slow - cooker chili, gather your ingredients. You'll need a pound of lean ground beef, which provides a meaty richness to the dish. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium - high heat until it's no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the beef and transfer it to your slow cooker.

Next, add a couple of cans of black beans, rinsed and drained. The rinsing step is crucial as it removes the excess sodium and any starchy residue from the beans. Along with the black beans, toss in a can of diced tomatoes, preferably with their juices. The tomatoes add a bright, acidic note to the chili, balancing out the richness of the beef and the earthiness of the beans.

For the aromatic base, finely chop an onion and a couple of cloves of garlic. Sauté them in the same skillet where you browned the beef until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add them to the slow cooker. The onion and garlic form the flavor foundation of the chili, infusing it with a sweet and savory aroma.

Spices are what really make this chili come alive. Add a tablespoon of chili powder, which gives the chili its characteristic spicy kick. A teaspoon of cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor, while a half - teaspoon of paprika adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful red color. You can also throw in a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.

Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, give them a good stir to combine. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for about 6 to 8 hours. This long, slow cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious and deeply flavored chili. If you're short on time, you can set the slow cooker on high heat for 3 to 4 hours instead, but the low - heat method generally yields a more intense flavor.

As the chili simmers away, you can start preparing the finishing touches. Green onions are the perfect topping for this chili. Their fresh, crisp flavor provides a nice contrast to the rich, warm chili. Simply slice the green onions thinly and set them aside until the chili is ready.

Another great addition to this chili is toasted baguette slices. Cut a baguette into thick slices and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the slices and sprinkle with a bit of salt. Toast them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy. These toasted baguette slices are ideal for dipping into the chili, soaking up all the delicious juices.

When the chili is done cooking, give it a final stir and taste for seasoning. You can adjust the salt, pepper, or spices if needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a generous sprinkle of green onions. Serve the toasted baguette slices on the side, and you're ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting dinner.

This slow - cooker chili with black beans is not only a great meal for a cold evening but also a versatile dish. You can customize it by adding other ingredients such as bell peppers, corn, or even a splash of beer for an extra depth of flavor. It's also a great option for meal prepping, as you can make a large batch and store the leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, give this slow - cooker chili with black beans a try. It's sure to become a favorite in your household, providing a warm and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.