Best Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili Recipe for Flavorful Meals

If you’re craving the unique, comforting flavors of Cincinnati chili but follow a vegetarian lifestyle, you’re in for a treat. This best vegetarian Cincinnati chili recipe captures the essence of the classic dish—rich spices, hearty texture, and that signature chili sauce—without any meat.

Perfect for chili nights, game day, or simply when you want something both wholesome and satisfying, this recipe uses wholesome plant-based ingredients to recreate the bold and aromatic flavor profile Cincinnati chili is famous for.

The blend of spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder adds a depth of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Whether you serve it over spaghetti or with your favorite toppings, this vegetarian version is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and fiber.

Ready to dive into this delicious twist on an American classic? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Cincinnati chili is a fantastic alternative for those who want all the rich, complex flavors of traditional Cincinnati chili without the meat. Made with plant-based protein and a special blend of warming spices, it delivers an authentic taste experience that is both hearty and healthy.

Unlike typical chili recipes, Cincinnati chili is known for its unique spice mix and serving style—over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese, onions, or beans. This recipe honors those traditions while making it accessible to vegetarians and anyone looking to add more meatless meals to their diet.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the heat level or protein source (try lentils, TVP, or mushrooms) to suit your preferences.

Plus, it freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP) or cooked lentils
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Spaghetti, cooked, for serving
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional), chopped onions, and kidney beans for topping

Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander (for draining beans and pasta)
• Large pot (for cooking spaghetti)

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
2. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add TVP or lentils: If using TVP, rehydrate it first by soaking in hot vegetable broth for 10 minutes, then drain any excess liquid. Add the TVP or cooked lentils to the pan and stir well.
4. Mix in tomato paste and sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Then add the tomato sauce and vegetable broth, mixing everything together.
5. Add spices: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, allspice, cumin, cloves, chili powder, cocoa powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
7. Add beans: Stir in the drained kidney beans and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through and balance the acidity.
8. Cook spaghetti: While the chili simmers, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
9. Serve: Spoon the vegetarian Cincinnati chili over a bed of hot spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and extra kidney beans if desired.
10. Enjoy! Serve immediately with your favorite sides or toppings.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tip: For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer or add a small amount of masa harina or cornmeal to the chili during simmering. This is a traditional thickening method in Cincinnati chili recipes.

If you prefer a vegan version, skip the shredded cheddar cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also swap TVP or lentils with finely chopped mushrooms for a meatier texture.

To make this chili spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili powder and cayenne.

Experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans to add variety. Additionally, try topping your chili with crushed oyster crackers or a dollop of sour cream for an authentic Cincinnati experience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Cincinnati chili is traditionally served over cooked spaghetti, but you can also enjoy it with baked potatoes, rice, or even as a topping for nachos. For a classic Cincinnati chili experience, try the famous “3-way” style by serving your chili over spaghetti topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

Other popular variations include:

• 4-way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, and diced onions.
• 5-way: All of the above plus kidney beans.

Pair your chili with a fresh garden salad or warm cornbread to round out the meal. If you want to keep things light, opt for a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Cincinnati chili recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a regional American classic without meat. The rich blend of spices combined with plant-based protein creates a hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings, casual dinners, or game day gatherings.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible for cooks of all levels and easy to customize to your taste.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cincinnati chili or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious option that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and serving styles to make it your own.

For more creative vegetarian recipes, check out our Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe, indulge your sweet tooth with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe, or satisfy your cheesy cravings with the Cheese Penny Recipe.

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