Name: Vegetarian Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder, optional; 1 teaspoon ground cumin, optional; 1 (14-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes; 1 (14-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (14-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup water or vegetable broth; 3 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo, diced; 3 tablespoons adobo sauce; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste; Freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving; Diced avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or pickled onions for topping

why make this recipe

Vegetarian Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that packs a punch of deliciousness. It is a perfect choice for those who want a filling meal without meat. Packed with a variety of vegetables and beans, this chili is nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile, making it easy to customize to your taste. Whether you need a cozy dinner on a cold night or a dish for a gathering, Vegetarian Chili is sure to please everyone.

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how to make Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder, optional
1 teaspoon ground cumin, optional
1 (14-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup water or vegetable broth
3 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo, diced
3 tablespoons adobo sauce
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving
Topping options: Avocado, diced or sliced, Greek yogurt or sour cream, Jalapeño or serrano peppers, diced or sliced, Fresh cilantro, Pickled Onions

Directions:

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, a pinch of salt, and several grinds of pepper. Stir and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the red bell pepper. Stir and cook until soft, about 5 to 8 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed.
Add the garlic, chili powder, and cumin if using. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the tomatoes, beans, water, chipotles, adobo sauce, corn, salt, and several grinds of pepper.
Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the chili has thickened.
Stir in the lime juice and season to taste. Serve with your desired toppings.

how to serve Vegetarian Chili

You can serve Vegetarian Chili in bowls, with a variety of toppings on the side for everyone to customize their dish. Topping options like diced avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or pickled onions add extra flavor and texture.

how to store Vegetarian Chili

To store leftover Vegetarian Chili, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Vegetarian Chili

For extra spiciness, add more chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use any variety of beans you like, such as black beans or garbanzo beans.
If you want a thicker chili, let it simmer a little longer.
Don’t skip the lime juice; it brightens the flavors beautifully.

variation

You can make this chili with different vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. Also, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead of fire-roasted for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make Vegetarian Chili ahead of time?

Yes, Vegetarian Chili tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on how many chipotle peppers you add. You can adjust it to your preference.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak and cook them before adding them to the chili. It may take longer but will be just as delicious.