Description

Warm up with this easy Vegetarian Chili packed with hearty beans, smoky spices, and fresh veggies for the perfect cozy night meal. This vibrant recipe combines plant-based protein, rich tomato goodness, and just the right hint of smoky depth, making it satisfying and nourishing. Ideal for any season, it brings warmth and smiles with simple ingredients and customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans and Vegetables

1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels
1 large onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms (for variation)

Tomato Base

1 can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste

Protein and Flavor Enhancers

4 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
Salt to taste

Finishing Touch

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables – Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and sauté until slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic; cook until tender and fragrant, around 7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices and Tomato Paste – Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper into the pot. Stir the spices with the vegetables for about a minute to release their aromas. Mix in the tomato paste, coating everything evenly to build a rich flavor base.
Step 3: Pour in Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth – Add canned diced tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the vegetables and spices are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Simmer and Season – Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. In the last 5 minutes, add corn kernels and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Taste and season with salt or additional spices as desired.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Cilantro – Remove the chili from heat once thickened and flavorful. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro before serving to add a bright, vibrant note.

Notes

Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and enhance flavor.
Toast spices in the pot before adding liquids to unlock full aroma and flavor.
Simmer the chili gently for deeper flavors without burning.
Adjust consistency by adding more vegetable broth for a thinner chili or simmer longer for a thicker stew.
Leftover chili tastes better the next day as flavors meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: vegetarian chili, plant-based chili, smoky chili, bean chili, easy chili recipe, hearty vegetarian meal