Save on Pinterest A hearty, comforting chili featuring nutty wheat berries, robust beans, and vegetables, all simmered together and crowned with a golden, lightly sweet cornbread topping—perfect for cozy nights.
This chili has become a family favorite during chilly evenings, bringing warmth and comfort to our dinner table.
Ingredients
- Wheat and Grains: 1 cup cooked wheat berries, 1/2 cup cooked pearl barley (optional for added texture)
- Beans & Legumes: 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed, 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
- Vegetables: 1 large onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 green bell pepper diced, 1 large carrot diced, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Liquids: 3 cups vegetable broth, 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional to taste), 1 1/2 tsp salt or to taste, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Oil: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Cornbread Topping: 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1/2 cup whole wheat flour, 2 tbsp sugar (optional), 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk + 1 tbsp vinegar for vegan), 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (or vegan butter), 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrot sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Add bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, wheat berries, barley (if using), kidney beans, black beans, and corn. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7:
- Meanwhile, prepare the cornbread topping In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt In another bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, and egg Pour wet ingredients into dry, stirring just until combined.
- Step 8:
- After chili has simmered, taste and adjust seasoning if needed Remove from heat.
- Step 9:
- Spoon cornbread batter evenly over the chili Smooth gently with a spatula.
- Step 10:
- Transfer the pot to the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted in the topping comes out clean.
- Step 11:
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving Scoop to serve, ensuring each portion includes both chili and cornbread.
Save on Pinterest This chili has brought many cozy family dinners, sharing warmth and love in every bowl.
Required Tools
Large oven-safe Dutch oven or deep skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, egg, and dairy (butter, buttermilk). For vegan or allergy-friendly versions, use plant-based milk and butter and a flax egg. Always check labels for cross-contamination if cooking for those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 380, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 62 g, Protein 14 g
Save on Pinterest This recipe delivers a rich flavor and hearty satisfaction perfect for family meals.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What grains are used in this dish?
The main grains include cooked wheat berries and optional pearl barley, adding a nutty texture and hearty bite.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk and butter for the cornbread topping and use a flax egg to keep it vegan.
- → How long should the chili simmer?
Simmer the chili gently for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the ingredients to soften.
- → What spices enhance the flavor here?
The blend includes chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and optional cayenne pepper for warmth and depth.
- → How is the cornbread topping prepared?
Mix dry ingredients like cornmeal and whole wheat flour with wet ones including buttermilk and melted butter, then pour over the chili before baking until golden.
- → Can additional proteins be added?
Yes, cooked ground beef or turkey can be folded into the chili base for a non-vegetarian variation.