Easy Black Bean Dip

Isn't it true in life that sometimes the simplest things can bring you the most joy? For example, the first cup of coffee in the morning, a nice note from a friend or even just a smile from a stranger. Not to get all sentimental and dramatic, but that's how I feel about this Black Bean Dip from one of my favorite blogs, Two Peas and Their Pod.

This dip is beyond easy to throw together, but it is so darn tasty. I actually made this for the Super Bowl so my posting of the recipe is quite delayed, but delayed gratification is good, right?!

The dip was quite the hit. I love that it is SO healthy, and that it tastes good piled on top of tortilla chips, pita chips, pretzels and veggies alike. Basically you could spread this dip on anything and it would taste incredible.

The texture is what you make of it. I don't like my dips to be completely smooth and whipped, but if you do, just pulse this longer in the food processor. I love black beans and they shine in this dip. The onion flavor is definitely present, so if you are not an onion fan, feel free to use less. There's a bit of the kick from the jalapeno, too, which was great for a spice lover like me.  Mmmm, just thinking about it is making me want more!

This dip is a great party appetizer or after school snack, but I can't wait to try it as a topping on my tacos! Yum! I hope you all will enjoy it as much as I did!

Easy Black Bean Dip

Recipe from Two Peas and Their Pod

• 2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small jalapeno, seeds removed and diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Put the black beans, onion, cilantro, garlic, jalapeno, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the black bean dip in a bowl and service with chips and/or cut up vegetables.

***Note: the dip is gluten free/vegan, just serve with gluten free chips/crackers.

I shared this post at: Zent Mrs. & The Mr., Inside BruCrew Life, Feeding Big and More, Semi Homemade Mom, Buns in My Oven, Food Done Light, Mandatory Mooch, Taste and Tell Blog, Chocolate, Chocolate, and More, Sassy Little Lady, Six Sisters' Stuff

Turkey Black Bean Chili

I've never thought of myself as much of a soup gal. It's just that, every time I'd crack open a can of soup, I was left wanting something else. Cans of soup with their loads of broth and little of anything else just leave something to be desired, am I right? I was just never satisfied!

Yet, being the naturally cold person I am (I shiver when it's 50 degrees...), I needed soup to warm me up this winter! Thus, I ushered in a homemade soups, stews and chili phase! And it welcomed me with a warm and satisfying embrace. Me and homemade soups, we have a mutual attraction.

This Turkey Black Bean Chili is a family favorite! I can't quite say where the recipe is from because all I have is a magazine clipping taped to an index card, but my mom tweaked the recipe a bit and it's just perfect!

What I like about this soup is its heartiness - no excess broth, but lots of protein! The diced tomatoes with jalapenos or chilies add a bit of heat which ties the whole dish together!

This chili is healthy, spicy and satisfying, and is sure to keep you full and warm in these cold winter months! As an added bonus, this would make a great addition to your Super Bowl tailgate menu because as you know, the most important part of the Super Bowl is the food (oh, and the commercials). So bundle up and enjoy!

Turkey Black Bean Chili

• 4 (15 oz.) cans black beans
• 1/2 - 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 2 lbs. ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6-8 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 (14 oz.) cans low-sodium, fat-free chicken broth
• 3 (14.5 oz.) cans petite dice tomatoes with jalapenos or chilies
• Sour cream, cilantro, grated cheese (for garnish, if desired)

Directions

1. Drain and rinse 3 cans of black beans. Don't drain and rinse the 4th can!
2. Sautee chopped onion and ground turkey in hot oil in a large dutch oven over medium heat, stirring often, about 8-10 minutes or until turkey crumbles and is no longer pink. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, salt and pepper; sautee about one minute. Stir in drained and undrained beans, chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer (at least) 10 minutes. Simmer longer for added flavor! Garnish as desired and enjoy!

I linked this post over at: Hungry Little Girl, Pocket Change Gourmet, Salt Tree, Buns in My Oven, Semi Homemade Mom, Recipes for My Boys, Chocolate, Chocolate and More Chocolate, Food Done Light, Six Sisters Stuff