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Hearty Vegetarian Chili Recipe

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 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.
  4. Combine Beans and Vegetables: Add the cooked beans and corn to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Notes

  • Use canned beans as a shortcut, but rinse them well to reduce sodium.
  • For extra protein, add textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils.
  • To make it spicier, increase chili powder or add diced jalapeños.
  • This chili can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day.
  • Serve with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Keywords: vegetarian chili, meatless chili, healthy chili, bean chili, vegetable chili, easy chili recipe