This vegetarian chili is hearty and full of colorful veggies! With beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day.
I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer. Bonus points if you top it with cheese (or not, if you’re feeling really healthy)! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great oil for cooking, but you can substitute it with canola oil or avocado oil. Both have high smoke points and work well for sautéing.
Beans: I used kidney, pinto, and black beans. If you’re short on any, feel free to use just one kind or even chickpeas for a fun twist!
Bell Peppers: I love the flavor of both red and green peppers. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or sub in zucchini or corn instead.
Spices: The chili powder and cumin are key for flavor! Adjust the spices based on your preference. For a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Packed with Flavor?
To get the best flavor in your chili, you want to build it up in layers. Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and peppers until soft. This step not only brings out the flavors but also gives the chili a great base.
- Take your time with the spices—add them after your veggies are softened to allow them to release their essential oils.
- During simmering, taste test and adjust seasoning—more salt, pepper, or spices can make a huge difference!
- Letting it simmer longer helps the flavors blend well. If you can, let it cool and reheat the next day; it tends to taste even better!
How to Make Vegetarian Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped avocado, chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vegetarian chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften up a bit.
2. Spice It Up:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano. Cook these spices for about 1 minute to enhance their flavors. You’ll start to smell the wonderful aroma!
3. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, and all the beans. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
4. Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
Raise the heat and bring the chili to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir it occasionally, and let those flavors meld together until the chili thickens to your liking.
5. Final Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chili! Add salt and black pepper to suit your taste preferences. Adjust heat if you want it spicier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hearty vegetarian chili hot, and don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Beans in This Chili?
Absolutely! You can use any combination of beans you prefer. Chickpeas or lentils work well too. Just make sure they are cooked or canned, so they mix easily into the chili!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
For an extra kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños. You can also stir in some hot sauce or diced chipotle peppers if you want a smoky heat!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating it on the stove or microwave.
How Do I Adjust the Thickness of the Chili?
If your chili is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or water while it simmers. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow it to thicken up.