If you’re looking to add a vibrant kick to your dishes while keeping things wholesome and vegan, this chilli paste vegan healthy recipe is your new go-to condiment. Bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this homemade chilli paste is not only a fantastic way to spice up meals but also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle.
Unlike store-bought varieties loaded with preservatives and artificial additives, this recipe uses whole foods and natural spices to create a rich, smoky, and spicy paste that’s perfect for a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted veggies, blending it into sauces, or using it as a marinade, this chilli paste promises to bring depth and heat without compromising your vegan principles. Plus, it’s super easy to make and keeps well in the fridge, making it a staple you’ll want to prepare again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chilli paste is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors but wants to avoid processed ingredients. It’s:
- 100% vegan and plant-based, making it suitable for all dietary preferences.
- Whole-foods focused, using fresh chillies and natural spices to maximize flavor and health benefits.
- Rich in antioxidants thanks to ingredients like garlic, ginger, and chillies that support immunity and reduce inflammation.
- Highly versatile; use it as a dip, spread, marinade, or cooking base for soups, stews, and stir-fries.
- Simple and quick to prepare, with no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
If you’re interested in other flavorful vegan recipes, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe and Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for some inspiring plant-based meals.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh red chillies (adjust to your heat preference)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free option)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: 1 small red onion, chopped (for a milder, richer paste)
Equipment
- Food processor or high-speed blender – essential for creating a smooth paste
- Sharp knife for chopping ingredients
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Glass jar or airtight container for storage
- Sauté pan (optional, if you want to cook the paste for deeper flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the chillies: Remove the stems from the chillies. For less heat, remove some or all the seeds. Chop roughly to make blending easier.
- Combine fresh ingredients: Add the chopped chillies, garlic, ginger, and optional red onion to your food processor or blender.
- Add dry spices and sweetener: Toss in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, sea salt, and coconut sugar (or maple syrup).
- Pour in liquids: Add the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice, and olive oil. These liquids help bind the paste and add tang and richness.
- Blend to a paste: Pulse the mixture until it forms a smooth, thick paste. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
- Taste and adjust: Sample your chilli paste and adjust salt, sweetness, or acidity to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of water or more olive oil.
- Optional cooking step: For a deeper, smoky flavor, heat a sauté pan over medium heat and cook the paste for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly. Let it cool before storing.
- Store your paste: Transfer the chilli paste into a clean glass jar or airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a small chipotle pepper or a pinch of smoked salt. You can also experiment with different types of chillies depending on your heat tolerance.”
- Mild version: Use fewer chillies or milder varieties like red bell peppers mixed with a small amount of hotter chillies.
- Sweet and spicy: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste or roasted red peppers for a sweeter, richer paste.
- Fermented chilli paste: For gut health benefits, ferment the chillies before blending by leaving them in a salt brine for 3-5 days.
- Garlic-free: Substitute garlic with asafoetida powder or omit if sensitive.
- Use toasted spices: Toast cumin or paprika before adding to the blender for a more intense aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 1 tbsp (15g) |
---|---|
Calories | 25 |
Fat | 2 g |
Carbohydrates | 3 g |
Fiber | 0.8 g |
Sugar | 1 g |
Protein | 0.3 g |
Vitamin C | 8% DV |
Iron | 2% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chilli paste is a versatile powerhouse. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Spread it on sandwiches or wraps to add a fiery punch.
- Mix into roasted vegetable dishes for extra depth.
- Use as a marinade for tofu, tempeh, or grilled veggies.
- Stir into soups or stews to enhance flavor complexity.
- Serve as a dipping sauce alongside spring rolls, dumplings, or fresh crudités.
Conclusion
This chilli paste vegan healthy recipe is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially if you love spicy, vibrant flavors without compromising your health or ethical choices. The freshness of the chillies combined with wholesome spices and natural sweeteners creates a condiment that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Its versatility means you can use it in countless dishes, from simple snacks to elaborate meals, making it a pantry staple you’ll reach for time and time again.
Best of all, making this chilli paste at home means you control every ingredient, ensuring it’s free from preservatives and tailored exactly to your taste buds. For more creative and healthy recipes, be sure to explore our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe or the decadent yet vegan-friendly Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.
Enjoy your spicy journey!
📖 Recipe Card: Chilli Paste Vegan Healthy Recipe
Description: A flavorful and spicy vegan chilli paste perfect for adding heat to any dish. Made with fresh ingredients and no added preservatives.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 6 dried red chillies, soaked
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Soak dried chillies in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Drain chillies and blend with garlic, onion, and water until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the blended mixture and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and salt.
- Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Let cool and store in an airtight container.
Nutrition: Calories: 80 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 8g
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