Another Vegetarian Chili
My own creation that has been in the making for years. A full and hearty dish the blows the chill of fall or winter away. Pair this with white or brown rice for a nutrtionally balanced meal. Where's the beef? Who knows and you won't care.

Total time
145 min
Servings
1
Calories
328.5
Category
Beans
Looking for the perfect plant-based comfort food? This hearty vegetarian chili is a nutrition-packed, low-cholesterol meal that proves you don't need meat to create a deep, complex flavor profile. Ideal for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, this vegan chili recipe is as healthy as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 sweet onion
- 1 green pepper
- 2 garlic
- 1 olive oil
- 1 tomatoes
- 2 black beans
- 1 pink beans
- 1 frozen corn kernels
- 1 fresh corn
- 2 carrots
- 3 chili powder
- 1 1/2 cumin
- 1/2 Mexican oregano
- 1 zucchini
Method
On medium heat, add oil, onions, green pepper, garlic and jalapeno pepper to a large pot.
Cook until onions and peppers are soft, about 5 minutes.
Add tomatoes to the pot.
I like to break mine up by hand.
If that's too messy for you, use the back of a cooking spoon.
Add in the beans, corn, carrots and seasonings.
Bring pot to a low simmer and cook about 60-90 minutes.
The longer the better.
Do not cover the pot as it stops evaporation and thickening of the chili.
Adjust seasoning by adding more chili to taste.
If you like it mui caliente, sprinkle a little cayenne or chop up a chipotle pepper.
Add in zucchini cubes and simmer an additional 30 minutes.
Serve over rice.
Cook's notes
- Sauté your aromatics (onions, garlic, and peppers) until soft to build a flavorful base for the chili.
- Toast your dry spices for 30 seconds before adding liquids to bloom the aromatics.
- Simmer the chili uncovered for the final 20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
Easy swaps
- Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Boost the texture: Add chopped zucchini or diced sweet potatoes to increase the vegetable volume.
- Gluten-free: Ensure your vegetable broth and chili powder blends are certified gluten-free.
Frequently asked
Is this vegetarian chili vegan?
Yes, this recipe is 100% plant-based and vegan-friendly.
How long does it take to make this chili?
This recipe takes approximately 145 minutes, allowing plenty of time for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can sauté your aromatics on the stove first, then combine everything in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
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