Description
This Nutritious Vegetarian Bean Chili is a hearty, protein-packed meal filled with bold spices, beans, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for meal prep, cozy nights, and a healthy dinner option. Naturally vegetarian, with vegan and gluten-free variations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 (4 oz) can green chilies
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Dice the onion, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
- Add the Spices – Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Liquids and Beans – Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Add Beans and Corn – Stir in kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, corn, and green chilies.
- Simmer the Chili – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with Fresh Ingredients – Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
- Serve and Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired.
Notes
- Spicy Version – Add more cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
- Smoky Flavor – Use smoked paprika instead of regular.
- Protein Boost – Add crumbled tofu, tempeh, or quinoa.
- Extra Veggies – Stir in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Creamy Option – Blend a portion of the chili for a thicker texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course,soup , stew
- Method: Stovetop, Slow Cooker (Optional)
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Keywords: vegetarian chili, bean chili, healthy chili, easy chili recipe, plant-based meal