Florida

Cuban Black Bean Chili

Inspired by Miami's Little Havana, this Sunshine State chili combines traditional Cuban black beans with spicy chorizo, citrus mojo, and tropical heat. It's a vibrant fusion that captures Florida's unique cultural blend.

Total 1hr 30min 🍴 Serves 8 🌶 Medium Heat 🥩 Pork

Equipment Needed

🍲 Dutch Oven
🥣 Citrus Juicer
🥄 Cutting Board
🔪 Sharp Knife
🥄 Wooden Spoon

Instructions

1

Make the mojo: Whisk together orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Set aside - this will add bright citrus flavor at the end.

Tip: Use fresh Florida citrus if possible - the juice is sweeter and more aromatic than store-bought!
2

Cook the chorizo: In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook sliced chorizo until browned and the fat renders out, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3

Brown the pork: In the chorizo fat, cook ground pork until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

4

Saute aromatics: Add onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

5

Add spices: Stir in cumin and oregano, toasting for 30 seconds. Add bay leaves, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.

6

Add beans and chorizo: Stir in black beans and return the chorizo to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

7

Simmer: Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken and flavors meld.

8

Add the mojo: Remove bay leaves. Stir in the citrus mojo, which adds the signature Cuban brightness. Simmer 5 more minutes.

9

Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt, pepper, or more lime juice as needed. The chili should be rich, slightly smoky, and bright with citrus.

10

Serve Miami style: Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, cilantro, and diced red onion. Serve with Cuban bread or over white rice. Squeeze a fresh orange wedge on top!

💡 Florida Chili Tips

  • Citrus is key: The mojo (citrus-garlic sauce) is what makes this Florida - don't skip it!
  • Spanish chorizo: Use cured Spanish chorizo, not fresh Mexican chorizo, for authentic flavor.
  • Black bean texture: Mash a cup of beans before adding for a creamier consistency while keeping whole beans too.
  • Make it spicier: Add a Scotch bonnet pepper for Caribbean heat - common in South Florida cooking.
  • Serve with tostones: Fried plantains make an amazing Florida-style accompaniment.
  • Cuban sandwich pairing: Leftovers are amazing stuffed in a pressed Cuban sandwich!