Vegan Bean Chili

why make this recipe

Vegan Bean Chili is a hearty, delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with nutritious veggies and protein-rich beans, it satisfies hunger while being entirely plant-based. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat healthier, this chili is a great choice. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s loaded with flavor that everyone will enjoy!

how to make Vegan Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced small
• 1 cup carrots, diced small
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 red or green bell pepper, diced (or sub 4-ounce can diced green chilies)
• 1 cup sweet potato, diced
• 6 fat cloves of garlic, rough chopped
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, or ground chipotle
• ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 (14-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, with juices, or 1 1/2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (with juices)
• 3 (14-ounce) cans beans – any assortment of black, pinto, kidney, etc. (drain and rinse) about 4.5 cups cooked beans
• 1 cup of veggie broth, more as needed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or GF Liquid Amino’s) or sub 1-2 veggie bullion paste or cubes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dark cocoa powder, or one square of dark chocolate (optional, but good!)
• 1-2 chipotle peppers, finely minced (or use 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from the can)
• 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup (or brown sugar), more to taste
• Optional: add crumbled or ground plant-based meat, like soy crumbles
• Optional: 1/2 cup ground walnuts or ground pecans
• Optional Garnishes: avocado, pickled jalapeno, pickled onions, chopped tomatoes, radishes, cilantro, scallions, vegan sour cream, vegan cheddar, or a drizzle of olive oil

Directions:

1. Dice the onion and sauté in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a few tablespoons of olive oil until fragrant and golden.
2. Lower the heat to medium, add the carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5 more minutes.
3. Chop the bell pepper and optional raw sweet potato, then add to the pot. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and continue cooking for 10 minutes, or until the veggies are just tender, stirring occasionally.
4. While this is happening, get your spices ready, and rinse and drain the beans. If using fresh tomatoes, dice them and save the juices.
5. When the veggies are just tender, add the spices: chili powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne, and cinnamon. Toast the spices in the pot for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavors.
6. Add the tomatoes (with their juices), beans, and veggie broth to the pot.
7. Add the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, stir, then cover with a lid and let simmer gently on medium-low heat for 10 more minutes or until the veggies are fork-tender.
8. The ground nuts add depth and also thicken the chili. If you’re leaving them out, you can blend 1-2 cups of chili in a blender and return it to the pot to thicken it.
9. Taste and adjust by adding more salt, spices, or maple syrup as needed.
10. Serve with any of the following: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, scallions, pickled jalapeno, hot sauce, sliced radishes, pickled onions, vegan sour cream or vegan grated cheddar, or a drizzle of olive oil.

how to serve Vegan Bean Chili

Serve Vegan Bean Chili hot in a bowl. You can add garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or pickled jalapenos for an extra kick. It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or tortilla chips. Enjoy it as a main dish or as a cozy side at any gathering.

how to store Vegan Bean Chili

Let the chili cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it with the date!

tips to make Vegan Bean Chili

• Feel free to mix and match your beans. Black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans all work well together.
• If you want it spicier, add more cayenne or some hot sauce.
• For a smokier flavor, add more smoked paprika or a few more chipotle peppers.
• Adjust the spices to your taste. Everyone has a different preference!
• Serve with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.

variation

You can easily customize Vegan Bean Chili by adding other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers. If you want to make it chunkier, reduce the amount of broth or blend some of the chili to thicken it.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes! Canned beans are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.

2. How do I make it gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or use a gluten-free liquid amino alternative.

3. Can I add meat or cheese to this recipe?
Yes! If you want to add meat or cheese, you can use plant-based meat or sprinkle some vegan cheese on top.