Vegetarian Recipes Chilli Con Carne That Taste Amazing

Chili con carne is a classic comfort food known for its rich, hearty flavors and satisfying warmth. But what if you want to enjoy this beloved dish without the meat?

Enter the world of vegetarian chili con carne—a vibrant, protein-packed dish that uses wholesome vegetables, beans, and spices to deliver all the flavor and comfort of traditional chili. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, looking to cut down on meat, or simply want to try something new, this recipe is the perfect choice.

It’s easy to make, nutritious, and bursting with layers of smoky, spicy goodness that will warm you up from the inside out.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a detailed recipe for vegetarian chili con carne, share tips on equipment, ingredients, and variations, and provide helpful serving ideas. Plus, you’ll discover why this dish is a must-have for your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chili con carne is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks.

It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber from beans and vegetables, keeping you full and energized.

The recipe balances smoky chipotle, cumin, and chili powder with fresh tomatoes and bell peppers, creating a rich flavor profile that rivals any meat-based chili. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by skipping any optional dairy toppings.

Finally, this chili freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute lunches. If you love hearty, healthy meals that don’t skimp on flavor, this vegetarian chili is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional, for smoky heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream or vegan alternatives, sliced avocado, jalapeño slices

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Serving bowls

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add diced red and green bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and chipotle powder (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
5. Add the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, black beans, kidney beans, and corn kernels. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the chili to thicken.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust chili powder or chipotle for more heat if desired.
8. Once cooked, stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices.

Tips & Variations

For deeper flavor, try roasting the bell peppers and tomatoes before adding them to the pot.

If you want to add more protein, consider including textured vegetable protein (TVP) or crumbled tempeh, which can mimic the texture of ground meat very well.

For a smoky twist, add a splash of liquid smoke or use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of powder. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the chili powder and chipotle.

Swap the black and kidney beans for pinto or cannellini beans if you like. You can also add other vegetables like sweet potatoes or mushrooms to bulk up the chili further.

Want to make this in a slow cooker? Follow the same steps for sautéing veggies and spices, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

For more hearty vegetarian meals, check out my Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore or Slow Cooker Vegetarian Recipes Easy and Delicious Ideas for effortless cooking inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chili con carne is a complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious ways to serve it up:

• Over steamed rice or quinoa for a filling and balanced plate.
• With warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up all the tasty sauce.
• Topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or guacamole for extra creaminess.
• Stuffed into baked sweet potatoes and garnished with fresh herbs for a nutritious twist.
• As a filling for tacos or burritos, paired with fresh salsa and lettuce.

For more tasty vegetarian meal ideas, try my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for a comforting pasta dish.

Conclusion

Vegetarian chili con carne proves that you don’t need meat to create a satisfying, hearty, and flavorful meal. With a combination of beans, fresh vegetables, and robust spices, this recipe delivers the comforting warmth of traditional chili in a healthy, plant-based format.

It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for batch cooking to enjoy throughout the week.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or simply seeking new ways to enjoy chili, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your kitchen repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own!

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, explore our collection including Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners that complement this chili perfectly.

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