Bold flavored chili recipe: plant-based magic
Craving a bold-flavored chili that’s simple to make and good for you too?
Look no further than this Easy Vegan Chili recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, relaxing weekends, or game day! Our no-fuss chili combines pantry staples with bold spices and a deglazing step that effortlessly elevates the depth of flavor.
Whether you’re already vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this chili promises deep flavors, nutritional benefits, and the kind of comfort only a bowl of chili can provide.
It’s a crowd-pleaser packed with plant-powered protein — it’s as nourishing as delicious.
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Healthy good-for-you benefits
On top of it, this healthy Vegan Chili also contributes to your health.
- Rich in Fiber: Beans are excellent for digestive health and help keep you satiated.
- Packed with Vitamins & Antioxidants: Carrots, tomatoes, and celery boost your immune system.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Ancho chile powder and smoked paprika contain capsaicin, reducing inflammation.
- Heart-Healthy: Low in fat and high in plant-based protein, supporting heart health.
- Balanced Nutrition: Offers a well-rounded meal with a good balance of macros and essential nutrients.
Chili, your way.
Explore endless possibilities with our versatile chili recipe. Choose simple swaps and/or add-ins to turn this classic dish tailored to your taste and preferences.
If you mix in extras or try some swaps, you might need a bit more water or seasoning to get everything just right. Feel free to tweak to your taste!
- Garbanzo beans (chickpeas): 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Carrot: 1 diced carrot, sautéed with veggies
- Hominy: 1 cup, drained
- Diced mushrooms: 1 cup, sautéed with veggies
- Diced poblano peppers: ½ cup, roasted, peeled, and sliced before adding
- Dark chocolate: 1 oz, finely chopped (add directly to melt)
- Quinoa: ½ cup, rinse before adding (add 1 cup extra liquid)
- Frozen corn: 1 cup (add directly once you turn off the heat and chili is complete)
- Kale/spinach: 2 cups, chopped (add in the last 5 minutes of cooking)
- Cubed sweet potatoes: 1 cup, roasted and cubed before adding
- Chipotle powder: ½ teaspoon (or to taste, add gradually)
- Coriander: ½ tsp, ground
Perfect sides and toppings
Elevate your chili experience with these delicious companions. Whether you're in the mood for something creamy, bold, or just extra comforting, we've got you covered:
- Homemade vegan cheese Sauce: Drizzle it over your chili for a creamy twist.
- Vegan sour cream: Add a dollop on top of your chili for a cool, tangy contrast.
- Zesty Guacamole: Perfect for adding a creamy, flavorful punch.
- Creamy hummus: Its creaminess and bold flavors enhance the chili, perfect as a topping.
FAQ
Yes! Cool it down after cooking, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
As long as you use tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative), this chili is entirely gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure your vegetable broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Absolutely! If you have fresh tomatoes, blend them up to make 4 cups of puree as a substitute for canned sauce.
Not at all! This Easy Vegan Chili is a perfect example, requiring just basic chopping and sautéing before everything is simmered together into a flavorful and nutritious meal. It’s an excellent recipe for beginners looking to explore plant-based cooking.
📖 Recipe
Easy Vegan Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, OR water, for sautéing
- 6 stalks of diced celery
- 1 diced red pepper, OR green
- 1 diced tomato
- 1 diced onion
- 6 diced garlic cloves
- 1 diced jalapeño, remove membranes and seeds for milder heat
- 3 tablespoon ancho chile powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼- ½ cup vegetable broth, for deglazing
- 4 cans of tomato sauce
- 4 cups liquid, Choose one option 4 cups water + 2 vegan bouillon cubes OR 2 cups vegetable broth + 2 cups water
- 6 cans of beans, pinto, black, kidney, or a combination, drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoon Tamari or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 2 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lime juice, freshly squeezed, adjust to taste (optional)
- 2 tablespoon masa harina, optional
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté celery, pepper, tomato, onion, garlic, and jalapeño with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or water until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
- Add ancho chile powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.
- Pour a splash (about ¼ cup, adjust based on need) of vegetable broth to deglaze the pot, gently scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift any flavorful bits that have stuck.
- Add the tomato sauce, beans, and your choice of liquid (water with bouillon cubes or vegetable broth and water mix) to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, partially covered for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
- If using, sprinkle masa harina over the chili, stirring well to incorporate and avoid clumps. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the chili reaches the desired consistency.
- Turn off heat.
- Taste the chili, adjusting the salt as needed. Stir in the lime juice if using.
- Ladle the chili into bowls, topping with green onions, sliced avocado, cilantro, parsley, vegan cheese sauce, or vegan sour cream.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the veggies uniformly in size so they soften evenly.
- Sprinkle masa harina over the chili during the last 10–15 minutes of simmering. Stir well to remove lumps. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add an additional tablespoon, but be mindful not to overdo it, as the chili will continue to thicken upon sitting.
Your New Go-To Healthy Chili Recipe
So, there it is! A vegan chili recipe that checks all the boxes for bold flavor, simplicity, and nutrients.
Packed with protein, rich in spices, and perfect for your next gathering or a simple healthy vegan dinner.
Our Easy Vegan Chili is more than a meal; it's a step toward a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. Share it with loved ones or enjoy a bowl of this comforting chili on your own—it’s a delicious homemade meal you’re going to feel good about.
Looking for more? If you’re feeling inspired to dive deeper into plant-based cooking or you're looking for guidance, don't hesitate to reach out. You can find more information about my coaching services here.
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