Texas Chili: Beans? Or No Beans?

There are many things that people living in Texas take immense pride in, including Texas itself, Buc-ee's, H-E-B, and barbecue, as well as Texas chili, to name a few.

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True Story Behind Texas No-Beans Chili Rule

The debate between those who believe chili should have beans in it and those who believe chili does not belong with beans has been long debated.  Personally, I like beans in chili because they act as a filler.  However, not all beans are created equal, and they have to be a specific bean to be worthy of swimming inside Texas chili.

Deep Texas Roots

The roots of Texas chili stem back to the 1800s when cowboys and settlers on the range chopped up pieces of beef and mixed them with dried peppers, onions, garlic, and spices, and simmered them over a campfire until it turned into a hearty stew.

In those days, beans were easily accessible and also inexpensive; however, it was not a part of chili.  According to Mashed, in 1977, the Texas legislature officially named Chili con Carne (translation: Chili and meat) as the official state dish.  They even made an emphasis of calling it "traditional chili," which basically indirectly says that beans are not meant to be included.

Beans In There, Don't Care

Despite the clear indication that beans do not belong in traditional Texas chili, that does not mean people are not using them in their recipes.  Beans are delicious, as is chili, so why not?  This is somewhat of a hot topic of discussion among chili fans everywhere.  Online, you can find an exceedingly large number of recipes that both include and exclude adding beans.

Conclusion

In all honesty, it boils down to personal preference, even if that preference gets you a few side eyes.  If you like beans in chili, go for it.