If you’re looking to pick a fight in Texas, start telling people that chili is supposed to be made with beans. As baffling as it might sound to outsiders, many of whom can’t imagine chili without them, legumes are considered taboo when it comes to Texas chili, or “Texas Red” as it is known to natives of the Lone Star State. How To Dispose Of Cooking Grease The Easy Way After Frying I asked a trusted group of Texas-based chefs and food writers why Texas chili can’t have beans.