When the chill of the season sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chili to bring comfort and satisfaction. Beechers Vegetarian Chili is a delightful twist on the classic, packed with vibrant vegetables, rich spices, and wholesome beans that create a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this chili recipe is a perfect choice. It’s easy to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and adaptable to your taste preferences.
The blend of smoky, spicy, and savory notes will have you coming back for seconds, making it a wonderful staple for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
This recipe not only embraces the spirit of cozy home cooking but also celebrates the bounty of fresh produce and pantry staples. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings to customize your meal.
Let’s dive into this delicious and fulfilling Beechers Vegetarian Chili recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beechers Vegetarian Chili stands out because it’s both incredibly flavorful and nutritious without relying on meat. It’s a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it filling and energizing.
The recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, such as beans, tomatoes, and spices, which means it’s budget-friendly too.
Moreover, this chili is very versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
It’s perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a cozy solo dinner, this chili delivers big on taste and comfort.
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 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped (optional, for heat)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
- Bowls and spoons for serving
Instructions
- 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 soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, carrots, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 5-6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices and cook for 1-2 minutes to release their aromas.
- Mix in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and maple syrup (or brown sugar). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Pour in the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir to combine evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spice to suit your palate.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime.
Tips & Variations
“For a smokier depth, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a dash of liquid smoke.”
- Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth and canned goods for any hidden gluten.
- Spice it up or tone it down: Adjust the jalapeño and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. For a milder chili, omit the jalapeño altogether.
- Use different beans: Feel free to swap any beans for your favorites, like cannellini or chickpeas.
- Add grains: For extra heartiness, stir in cooked quinoa or barley during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or vegan cashew cream before serving to add richness.
- Batch cooking: This chili freezes well. Portion into airtight containers for quick meals later.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Total Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian chili shines served on its own, but there are plenty of ways to dress it up for an even more satisfying meal. Try spooning it over Magic Dough for a comforting chili bread bowl experience.
For a Tex-Mex twist, top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Cornbread or tortilla chips make excellent sides or dippers.
Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad like the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe to balance the warmth and spice.
For more cozy dinner ideas, check out the Lump Of Coal Recipe, a deliciously savory side that complements chili beautifully.
Conclusion
Beechers Vegetarian Chili is a nourishing and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of year. Its hearty combination of beans, vegetables, and spices creates a satisfying meal that pleases both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
The recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your taste, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week, this chili delivers on comfort and nutrition without any fuss. Plus, with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip it up quickly on busy nights.
Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite chili!
📖 Recipe Card: Beecher's Vegetarian Chili
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili packed with beans, vegetables, and spices. Perfect for a cozy meal that satisfies without meat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini; cook 5 minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir well.
- Add black beans and kidney beans; bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cheese or sour cream.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 6g | Carbs: 50g
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