Description

Warm up your evenings with this easy Vegetarian Chili packed with hearty vegetables, mixed beans, and a blend of aromatic spices. This plant-based meal offers a cozy, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for any season. Customize the spice level to your preference and enjoy a satisfying classic comfort food that is wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans and Base

1 cup kidney beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
1 cup black beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
1 cup cannellini beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (natural)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, diced
1 cup corn kernels

Spices and Seasonings

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Texture and Garnishes

1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant to build the savory foundation of the chili.
Build Flavor with Spices: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Toast the spices briefly to unlock their aromas and deepen the flavors before adding vegetables and liquids.
Add Vegetables and Beans: Add diced bell peppers, corn kernels, mixed beans, and diced tomatoes (natural) to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and apple cider vinegar; stir to combine.
Simmer and Thicken: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent, stirring thoroughly to achieve a thick and luscious consistency.
Finish and Flavor Adjustments: Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh chopped cilantro just before serving for a bright, fresh touch.

Notes

Use fresh chili powder and cumin to enhance flavor intensity.
Simmer the chili slowly to allow all ingredients to meld beautifully.
Season gradually to avoid over-salting or excessive spice.
Add apple cider vinegar carefully to brighten the dish without overpowering.
Balance textures by combining soft beans with crisp vegetables like corn and bell peppers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: vegetarian chili, plant-based chili, vegan recipe, hearty vegetable chili, gluten free chili, easy chili recipe