Vegan Bean Chilli Recipe Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and completely plant-based meal, this vegan bean chilli recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with protein-rich beans, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of warming spices, this dish is perfect for cozy nights in or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this chilli offers a delicious balance of comfort and nutrition. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized to suit your taste buds. Dive into this recipe and discover how a simple pot of chilli can turn into a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Not only is this chilli a perfect winter warmer, but it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of beans and veggies in one satisfying dish. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy days.

Pair it with your favorite sides or enjoy it on its own – either way, you’ll love the depth of flavor and the wholesome goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bean chilli recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s nutrient-dense, combining multiple types of beans with fresh vegetables, which means you get plenty of fiber, plant protein, and essential vitamins in one bowl.

It’s also versatile — you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

The spices bring a perfect balance of heat and smokiness, creating a rich flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to clean!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this chilli is a crowd-pleaser and a soul-soothing comfort food.

Finally, it’s an excellent recipe to introduce if you want to explore more vegan meals. If you love this, you might also enjoy checking out our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners for more flavorful plant-based inspirations.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave (optional, for balance)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lime

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Ladle (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and dried oregano. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the tomato paste and stir well to coat the vegetables and spices. Cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Add all the rinsed beans to the pot. Mix well to combine.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the chilli simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and maple syrup (if using). Adjust the chili powder if you want more heat.
9. Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice for a bright finishing touch.
10. Serve hot garnished with chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a dash of liquid smoke.

You can easily customize this vegan chilli to your liking. Feel free to swap any of the beans for chickpeas or lentils for a different texture.

If you like your chilli thicker, simmer it longer or blend a small portion and stir it back in for creaminess.

Want to add some heat? Include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

For a chunkier style, add diced zucchini or corn in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This chilli also freezes wonderfully, so make a big batch and store portions for quick meals on busy days.

If you’re interested in more slow cooker ideas, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas – perfect for busy schedules.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan bean chilli is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy it over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

You can also serve it with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

For a creamy contrast, top with avocado slices or a dollop of vegan sour cream. Fresh toppings like diced red onions, jalapeño slices, or extra cilantro add a nice crunch and brightness.

This chilli pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed greens for a well-rounded dinner.

Looking for more vegan sides to complement your meal? Try our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves, perfect for dunking and mopping up every last bite.

Conclusion

This vegan bean chilli recipe is a fantastic addition to any plant-based cooking repertoire. It’s hearty, nutritious, and bursting with flavor from the perfectly balanced spices and wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a comforting, meat-free meal, this recipe will not disappoint.

The adaptability and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and beginners alike. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

If you enjoyed this chilli, be sure to explore other vibrant vegan recipes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the flavorful Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.

Happy cooking and may your kitchen always be filled with delicious aromas and joyful gatherings!

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