If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying vegan chili recipe, you’ve just hit the jackpot. This best vegan chili recipe ever veggie burger brings together the rich, smoky flavors of classic chili with the wholesome goodness of plants.
Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave comfort food that’s both nutritious and cruelty-free, this chili is packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant spices that will warm your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more meatless meals to your rotation, this recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
What makes this chili stand out is its versatility — you can enjoy it on its own, top a veggie burger with it, or even use it as a filling for tacos or baked potatoes. The combination of beans, lentils, vegetables, and warming spices creates a dish that’s rich in texture and taste without any animal products.
Ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chili is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly hearty and filling, thanks to a mix of beans, lentils, and vegetables that provide plenty of protein and fiber.
It’s also naturally gluten-free and oil-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
The spice blend is balanced perfectly — warming but not overwhelming — and the slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, this chili freezes wonderfully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for days.
And if you’re serving it with veggie burgers, it adds an exciting, savory topping that takes your plant-based burger experience to a whole new level.
Lastly, it’s a flexible recipe. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season, making it a reliable go-to meal for any weeknight.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Can opener
- Colander or sieve (for rinsing beans and lentils)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Dice the onion, bell pepper, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic cloves. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add lentils and liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the lentils for tenderness.
- Add beans: Once the lentils are tender, stir in the black beans and kidney beans. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to thicken the chili and meld the flavors.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper as desired. Stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls or spoon generously over your favorite veggie burgers. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
“For a smokier chili, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a teaspoon of liquid smoke.”
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or increase the cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Swap lentils: Use red lentils for a softer texture or split peas for a unique twist.
- Add more veggies: Corn, zucchini, or mushrooms all add great texture and flavor.
- Bulk it up: Incorporate cooked quinoa or bulgur for an extra protein boost.
- Slow cooker option: Brown the veggies first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Freeze leftovers: This chili freezes beautifully; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 14g |
Carbohydrates | 35g |
Dietary Fiber | 12g |
Fat | 2g |
Sodium | 430mg |
Vitamin A | 25% DV |
Vitamin C | 30% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chili is incredibly versatile and delicious served in many ways:
- Over veggie burgers: Spoon the chili on top of your favorite plant-based burger for a smoky, spicy twist.
- With rice or quinoa: Create a filling bowl by serving chili over grains with avocado slices and fresh herbs.
- In baked potatoes: Top a hot baked potato with a scoop of chili and vegan sour cream.
- With tortilla chips: Serve as a dip or chili con queso alternative for a game day snack.
- Stuffed in wraps or tacos: Use the chili as a flavorful filling combined with shredded lettuce and salsa.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a warm, comforting meal on a cold day or looking to impress family and friends with a delicious plant-based dish, this best vegan chili recipe ever veggie burger is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
It balances robust flavors, hearty ingredients, and wholesome nutrition, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but its flexibility means you can tweak it to your liking — adding more spice, different beans, or extra vegetables. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with veggie burgers, giving you a creative and tasty way to enjoy your favorite plant-based patties.
For more inspiring recipes, check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, the sweet and savory Marzipan Challah Recipe, or the ever-popular Magic Dough Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Chili Recipe Ever Veggie Burger
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan chili perfect for topping veggie burgers or enjoying on its own. Packed with beans, veggies, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 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, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot over veggie burgers or alone.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 45 g
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