Introduction

This vegetarian chili is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any day of the week. Packed with beans, vegetables, and flavorful spices, it’s easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.

Hearty Vegetarian Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups mixed beans (such as black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and corn)
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped vegetables and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Step 3: Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, or chopped cilantro.

Tips & Variations

Use canned beans for convenience, but rinse them well to reduce excess sodium.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
For a spicier chili, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve with cornbread or over rice to make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and cook them down a bit longer until they break down and release their juices.

Is this chili suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This vegetarian chili holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for easy, make-ahead meals during the week.

Hearty Vegetarian Chili Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 114 reviews

A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili made by simmering a variety of beans, tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices together to create a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion.

Author: Stella
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Beans

1 cup kidney beans, soaked and cooked
1 cup black beans, soaked and cooked
1 cup pinto beans, soaked and cooked

Tomatoes

2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 cup diced tomatoes

Vegetables

1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 medium carrot, diced

Spices

2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Soak and cook the beans until tender if using dried beans. Chop all vegetables including onion, bell pepper, carrot, and mince the garlic.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the crushed and diced tomatoes along with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes to blend flavors.
Combine Beans and Vegetables: Add the cooked beans and corn to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Simmer the Chili: Cover the pot partially and let the chili simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows all flavors to meld perfectly.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt and spices as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.