Chipotle Peppers In Adobo Sauce Vegan Recipes To Try Today

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’re looking to add a smoky, spicy kick to your vegan dishes, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are an absolute game-changer. These versatile peppers bring a deep, smoky flavor with just the right amount of heat, making them perfect for a variety of recipes ranging from sauces and marinades to stews and dips.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based cooking, incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce will elevate your meals with minimal effort.

In this post, we’ll explore several delicious vegan recipes that use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce as a star ingredient. From creamy chipotle cashew sauce to smoky black bean burgers, these dishes are packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Each recipe highlights the unique taste of chipotle peppers while keeping everything 100% plant-based. Let’s dive in and discover how to make your meals more exciting and satisfying with this smoky delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce have a rich, smoky flavor that adds depth to any dish. They are perfect for those who love a subtle heat without overpowering the other ingredients.

Using these peppers in vegan cooking means you can enjoy complex, layered flavors often associated with meat-based dishes—but all plant-based.

These recipes are not only flavorful but also nutrient-dense, packed with fiber, antioxidants, and plant protein. They are perfect for meal prepping, quick dinners, and impressing guests who never even realize they’re eating vegan.

Plus, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce come canned and ready to use, making it easy to add authentic Mexican-inspired flavors to your kitchen repertoire without any fuss.

Ingredients

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (1-2 peppers plus 2 tbsp sauce per recipe)
  • Cashews (1 cup, soaked)
  • Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • Garlic cloves (3-4, minced)
  • Yellow onion (1 medium, diced)
  • Fresh lime juice (2 tbsp)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tbsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
  • Cumin powder (1 tsp)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Vegetable broth (1 cup)
  • Maple syrup or agave nectar (1 tsp)
  • Fresh cilantro (a handful, chopped)
  • Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas (for serving)
  • Optional: Nutritional yeast (2 tbsp for cheesy flavor)

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

Recipe 1: Smoky Chipotle Cashew Sauce

  1. Soak cashews in hot water for at least 1 hour or overnight for creamier sauce.
  2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a blender along with 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 2 tbsp of the adobo sauce, 1 garlic clove, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 cup vegetable broth.
  3. Blend until smooth, adding more broth if needed to reach a creamy consistency.
  4. Adjust seasoning with lime juice and a pinch of smoked paprika.
  5. Use this sauce as a dip, drizzle over roasted veggies, or toss with pasta or grains for a smoky flavor boost.

Recipe 2: Chipotle Black Bean Burgers

  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat and sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until translucent.
  2. In a bowl, mash 1 can of black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but with some chunks.
  3. Add the sautéed onion and garlic, 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 tbsp adobo sauce, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix in 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs to bind the mixture.
  5. Form the mixture into 4 patties and chill for 30 minutes.
  6. Cook patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side or until browned and firm.
  7. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite vegan toppings and a smear of chipotle cashew sauce.

Recipe 3: Chipotle Lentil Stew

  1. In a pot, heat 2 tbsp oil and sauté 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves until soft.
  2. Add 1 cup rinsed lentils, 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers, 2 tbsp adobo sauce, 1 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
  3. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lime juice to taste.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with warm tortillas or rice.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer less heat, start with one chipotle pepper and gradually add more to taste. Chipotle peppers are smoky but can be quite spicy for some palates.

For a nuttier variation, try swapping cashews for soaked almonds or sunflower seeds in the sauce recipe. You can also add nutritional yeast to the cashew sauce for a cheesy flavor that pairs well with pasta and grain bowls.

These chipotle peppers in adobo sauce vegan recipes can be easily adapted by swapping black beans for chickpeas or lentils for split peas. Add roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers to the stew for extra nutrition and texture.

Don’t forget to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delightful side that complements smoky flavors beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Recipe Calories Protein Fat Carbohydrates Fiber
Chipotle Cashew Sauce (per 1/4 cup) 180 5g 14g 10g 1g
Chipotle Black Bean Burger (per patty) 220 10g 6g 30g 8g
Chipotle Lentil Stew (1 cup) 190 12g 4g 28g 10g

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chipotle cashew sauce drizzled over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or as a creamy dip with tortilla chips. The black bean burgers are fantastic topped with fresh avocado slices, lettuce, and vegan mayo for a satisfying burger experience.

The lentil stew pairs wonderfully with warm corn or flour tortillas, or over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and sliced green onions to brighten the rich, smoky flavors.

For a delicious snack or side, try pairing any of these dishes with our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy contrast that wakes up your palate.

Conclusion

Using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce in vegan recipes is a fantastic way to infuse bold, smoky flavors into your meals without relying on animal products. These recipes showcase the versatility of chipotle peppers, from creamy sauces to hearty stews and satisfying burgers.

Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just looking to spice up your plant-based cooking, these recipes deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the heat and spice levels to find your perfect balance.

And while you’re here, explore more flavorful recipes like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a sweet treat that complements your savory dishes beautifully!

📖 Recipe Card: Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce Vegan Chili

Description: A smoky and spicy vegan chili featuring chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for bold flavor. Perfect for a hearty, plant-based meal that warms you up.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the chipotle peppers
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in red bell pepper, cook for 3 minutes.
  4. Add chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, stir well.
  5. Mix in black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
  6. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  8. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Marta K

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