I never get tired of this transformation. From dry beans (black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans) …

To chili…

Cook the beans down until they make a thick paste (like this), then add any diced vegetables (e.g. onions, garlic, peppers, tomatoes) and spices. Cook and stir an additional 15 or 20 minutes until the vegetables soften. I’ve tried adding vegetables sooner but it seems to keep the beans from softening.