Best Vegetarian Chili Recipe Video for Easy, Tasty Meals

Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant vegetarian goodness? Look no further than this best vegetarian chili recipe!

Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want a nutritious, satisfying bowl of chili, this recipe combines a rich blend of beans, vegetables, and spices to create a mouthwatering dish that even meat-lovers will adore.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just dabbling in plant-based meals, this chili offers bold flavors, a lovely texture, and plenty of versatility. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Watch along with our detailed video tutorial to get step-by-step guidance and tips to make your best pot of vegetarian chili yet!

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know—from essential ingredients and tools to helpful variations and nutritional info. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the delicious world of vegetarian chili!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chili is a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. It’s loaded with fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, making it a nutrient powerhouse.

The combination of smoky spices like cumin and chipotle powder gives it a deep, complex flavor that will warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.

One of the best parts? This chili recipe is incredibly flexible.

You can easily swap out vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand, and it freezes wonderfully—ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Whether served with rice, cornbread, or your favorite toppings, this chili promises comforting, cozy satisfaction in every bite.

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
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, balances acidity)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeño slices

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Optional: Immersion blender (for a creamier texture)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
2. Add the garlic, bell peppers, carrots, celery, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all the beans. Stir well to combine.
5. Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, chipotle powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. After simmering, taste and adjust seasoning. If the chili tastes too acidic, stir in the maple syrup or honey. Add lime juice for brightness.
8. Optional: For a thicker, creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about one-third of the chili directly in the pot.
9. Serve hot topped with your choice of garnishes like fresh cilantro, cheese, or avocado slices.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t be afraid to experiment with the beans and vegetables you use. Sweet potatoes, corn, or zucchini are fantastic additions.

You can also swap out chipotle powder for smoked cayenne if you prefer a different heat profile.”

Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked salt for an extra depth of flavor.

Spice level: Adjust the jalapeño and chipotle powder according to your heat preference. For a milder chili, omit the jalapeño.

Protein boost: Add textured vegetable protein (TVP) or chopped mushrooms for a meatier texture.

Slow cooker option: After sautéing the vegetables and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chili is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Cornbread or garlic bread on the side pairs beautifully to soak up every delicious drop. For a lighter option, try topping it with fresh avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Looking to add a crunch? Tortilla chips or roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) make excellent toppings.

For added freshness, a squeeze of lime and some chopped cilantro bring a vibrant finish. You can even stuff this chili into baked potatoes or serve it as a filling for vegetarian tacos.

Conclusion

This best vegetarian chili recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines wholesome ingredients with rich, smoky spices to deliver a comforting and nourishing meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that celebrates plant-based eating without sacrificing flavor.

Its flexibility, ease of preparation, and nutritional benefits make it a staple to keep in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to check out some of our other fantastic recipes like the Chili Recipe New Mexico for a meatier take, or cool down after chili night with the creamy Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe. And if you’re in the mood for a cheesy twist, try our Cheese Penny Recipe for a delicious side or snack.

Happy cooking!

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