Description
A comforting and wholesome Vegetarian Chili packed with colorful vegetables, plant-based proteins, and bold spices, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a satisfying, cozy bowl of nourishing goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (use a mix of colors)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (fresh)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Fresh Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking gently until fragrant and translucent to create the flavorful base for the chili.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers and any additional veggies you prefer. Cook until they soften slightly to release their natural sweetness.
- Combine Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix everything evenly to create a hearty mixture.
- Mix in Spices and Broth: Add chili powder, smoked paprika, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in vegetable broth to loosen the mixture and encourage the flavors to meld during simmering.
- Simmer and Thicken: Let the chili simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually add the natural gelling agent to achieve a cozy, thick texture that clings comfortably to your spoon.
- Finish with Fresh Elements: Turn off the heat and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro just before serving to brighten and freshen the dish.
Notes
- Use fresh chili powder and paprika for vibrant flavor instead of old spices.
- Stir occasionally but allow the chili to simmer undisturbed enough to develop rich depth.
- Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent to reach your preferred chili consistency.
- Taste and fine-tune acidity or saltiness by adding more lime juice or vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) if needed.
- Use a variety of bell pepper colors for visual appeal and layered sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegetarian chili, plant-based chili, vegan chili, healthy chili, easy vegetarian recipe, comfort food
