Smoky Vegetarian Chili

This Smoky Vegetarian Chili is packed with a medley of beans, fresh vegetables, and a delicious blend of spices. It’s perfect for satisfying your chili cravings without the meat, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

A Plant-Based Game Changer for Football Season

Growing up, I always looked forward to football Sundays with my family. The sound of the game on TV, the cheers, and of course, the aroma of a simmering pot of chili on the stove.

But as I became more health-conscious, I realized that the traditional beef chili I loved wasn’t the best choice for my well-being. So, I set out to create a chili that was just as satisfying but healthier. The result? This nutrient-packed, plant-based chili that I can enjoy guilt-free while watching the game.

What You Need to Make Smoky Vegetarian Chili

• Beans: Kidney, black, and garbanzo beans infuse the chili with both flavor and a visually appealing mix of colors. While this recipe recommends these beans, feel free to explore alternatives beans if you have a preference.
• Vegetables: This particular chili style relies tomatoes, carrots, red bell peppers, onions, and jalapeno peppers. You can use crushed tomatoes to achieve the desired consistency.
• Spices: The magic of this smoky vegetarian chili arises from its spice blend, which combines minced garlic, chili flakes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. These spices work together to create the perfect balance of smokiness and heat.
• Other Ingredients: Don’t forget the essential components – chipotle sauce and water. If you’re new to chipotle peppers, exercise caution; you can always add more later for extra smokiness and depth.

How to Make Vegearian Chili

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by preparing all the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onions, red bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the garlic, jalapenos and spices.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Add ALL the beans to the pot. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chipotle sauce, and water.
5. Simmer: Simmer for a little bit.
6. Serve: Spoon a big ole spoonful into a bowl and top with all the fixins

Toppings and Sides:

1. Toppings Galore: Set up a chili topping station with an array of options for your guests to customize their bowls. Offer shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These toppings add contrasting flavors and textures, making each bite a delightful surprise.
2. Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Serve your chili alongside a basket of crispy tortilla chips or strips. They make an excellent vessel for scooping up spoonfuls of chili and add a satisfying crunch.
3. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Elevate your chili meal with a side of fluffy cilantro-lime rice. The bright flavors of cilantro and lime zest add a citrusy kick to each spoonful of chili.
4. Pita Chips: Sprinkle some crispy pita chips on top of your chili for added texture and a Southwestern flair.
5. Pickled Jalapeños: If you love a bit of heat, like I do, offer pickled jalapeño slices as an optional topping. They’ll add a spicy kick to your chili without overwhelming the other flavors.

More Vegetarian Recipes!

If you’re looking for more vegetarian recipe ideas then you’ll want to check these out:

• This vegetarian sweet potato and black bean chili takes many of the same ingredients as the smoky vegetarian chili. Grab a few extra cans of beans and veggies to have on hand!
• These Tik-Tok Quesadillas are just as much fun to eat as they are to make!
• Roasted butternut squash and pear soup is the perfect meal for cool fall and winter evenings. Not to mention, it only takes a few ingredients!

Find even more vegetarian-style recipes here!

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