Vegan Chili Bean Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of chili, especially when it’s packed with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich beans. This vegan chili bean recipe is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and legumes that come together to create a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Made with common pantry ingredients and bursting with bold flavors, this chili is ideal for chilly evenings, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with fiber and plant protein.

Let’s dive into making this delicious vegan chili that will warm your soul and impress your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chili bean recipe stands out because it balances hearty ingredients with rich, smoky spices, offering a depth of flavor without any meat or dairy. It’s incredibly versatile — you can customize the heat level, add your favorite veggies, or even use it as a base for other meals like chili-stuffed peppers or vegan chili tacos.

Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also budget-friendly and perfect for batch cooking. The beans provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and sustained energy.

Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

If you enjoy other vibrant plant-based dishes, don’t forget to check out our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or explore our Chili Recipe Slow Cooker Vegetarian: Easy & Hearty Meal for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Optional: blender or immersion blender (for smoother chili texture)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it turns translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Incorporate the diced red and green bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Let the spices toast for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
5. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the vegetables and spices.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and all the beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the corn kernels about 10 minutes before the chili is done cooking to keep their sweetness and slight crunch.
9. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices if needed, adding more chili powder or cayenne for extra heat or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
10. Optional: For a creamier chili, blend a cup of the chili and stir it back in. This thickens the texture while keeping all the delicious flavors.
11. Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5 minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a dash of liquid smoke!”

You can easily swap out the black beans or kidney beans for pinto beans or chickpeas depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Adding diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash can give the chili a touch of natural sweetness and additional texture.

If you prefer a slow cooker version, simply sauté the onions and garlic, then transfer all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the flavors and makes the beans even more tender.

To make this chili spicier, add jalapeño or serrano peppers with the onions, or serve with hot sauce on the side. For a milder version, omit the cayenne and reduce the chili powder.

Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or try the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat to balance your savory meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chili bean recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Serve it over fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

You can also use it as a filling for soft tacos or a hearty topping for baked potatoes.

Top your chili with sliced avocado, diced red onions, or a dollop of vegan sour cream to add creaminess and contrast. Cornbread or warm tortillas make great accompaniments to soak up every bit of this delicious chili.

For a fun twist, try layering the chili in a vegan chili casserole or make a chili bowl with fresh greens, guacamole, and salsa for a vibrant Tex-Mex-inspired feast.

Conclusion

This vegan chili bean recipe is a flavorful, nutritious, and comforting dish that suits any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to meal prepping for the week. Its rich blend of spices, wholesome beans, and fresh vegetables delivers a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s a fantastic introduction to plant-based cooking or a go-to recipe for seasoned vegan cooks looking for a reliable staple. By incorporating ingredients you likely have on hand, it minimizes waste and maximizes taste.

Don’t forget to explore other delightful vegan recipes like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your chili, or dive into the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more hearty plant-based meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful vegan chili!

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