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Hearty Vegetarian Chili

A close-up of a bowl filled with hearty vegetarian chili, featuring kidney beans, corn, and tomatoes.

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A flavorful and satisfying meatless chili packed with beans and vegetables, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
  5. Stir in corn and cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a deeper, richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a teaspoon of soy sauce with the crushed tomatoes.
  • This chili is excellent for meal planning and can be made ahead of time. The flavors meld and improve overnight.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.

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