Are you in the mood for a comforting bowl of chili but prefer to keep things plant-based? This Vegan Chili is just what you need! It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and rich spices, making it perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or serving at a gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to make, budget-friendly, and a great source of plant-based protein.
Table of Contents
🥄 Ingredients for Vegan Chili
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (diced) | 1 large |
| Bell pepper (diced) | 1 medium |
| Carrot (diced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) |
| Canned kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Canned black beans | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh cilantro (optional) | 1/4 cup |
🥣 How to Make Vegan Chili
- Prepare the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. - Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Combine the Tomatoes and Beans
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, and tomato paste to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, then stir to combine everything. - Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve
Once the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Serve hot with a garnish of fresh cilantro, if desired.
✅ Why This Vegan Chili Works
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a rich, savory flavor that is satisfying and delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a big batch, which is great for leftovers or freezing for later.
- Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like beans and vegetables, this dish is easy on your wallet.
- High in Protein: Beans are an excellent plant-based source of protein, making this chili filling and nourishing.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies or adjust the spices to your liking.
🧊 Storage Tips for Vegan Chili
- Fridge Life: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing.
🍽️ Creative Serving Ideas for Vegan Chili
- Serve with Rice: Spoon the chili over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Toppings Galore: Top with sliced avocado, dairy-free sour cream, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
- Chili Nachos: Layer the chili over tortilla chips and top with vegan cheese and avocado for a fun snack or appetizer.
- Chili Baked Potatoes: Serve the chili over baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Tacos or Wraps: Use the chili as a filling for soft tacos or wraps, adding your favorite toppings.
❓ FAQ: Vegan Chili
Can I make this chili spicier?
Yes! If you like a spicy kick, add more chili powder, a diced jalapeño, or some red pepper flakes while cooking.
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the vegetables and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I substitute the beans?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the kidney and black beans for other beans like pinto beans, chickpeas, or white beans.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to make any changes.
Can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Definitely! Try adding zucchini, corn, or sweet potatoes for extra texture and flavor.
🍴 Conclusion
This Vegan Chili is the perfect plant-based dish for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal. It’s packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like beans, vegetables, and rich spices that make each bite incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to feed a crowd, this chili is sure to impress. Plus, it’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and highly customizable.
👉 Craving more plant-based recipes? Visit jennarecipes.com for more delicious meals that are as healthy as they are tasty!
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