Kentucky-style White Bean Chili

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Albanian Jani me fasule is transformed into a Kentucky-style White Bean Chili by incorporating ingredients and flavors commonly found in Kentucky cuisine. The addition of bacon, corn, and tomatoes adds a Southern twist to the dish, while the use of smoky spices and herbs enhances the flavor profile. The result is a chili that combines the heartiness of white beans with the smoky and savory flavors of Southern cooking. We alse have the original recipe for Jani me fasule, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) dried white beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) dried white beans, soaked overnight
• 4 slices bacon, diced 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 large onion, diced 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (150g) frozen corn kernels 1 cup (150g) frozen corn kernels
• 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 12g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked white beans. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
3. 3.
   In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, and minced jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the soaked white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, frozen corn kernels, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the Kentucky-style White Bean Chili hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bacon — For a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
• Dried white beans — Make sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeno pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Serve the chili with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess.
• This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating it for a quick and delicious meal.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like diced carrots or celery.
• Serve the chili with a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Serving advice

Serve the Kentucky-style White Bean Chili in bowls, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional chopped fresh cilantro on top of the chili just before serving. Serve it in colorful bowls to make the dish visually appealing.