Bulgur Chili Recipe Vegetarian: Hearty & Flavorful Meal

When it comes to hearty, flavorful meals that warm you up from the inside out, chili is a timeless favorite. But what if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist that still packs a punch?

Enter the bulgur chili recipe vegetarian — a delightful fusion of wholesome bulgur wheat and vibrant chili spices that creates a satisfying, protein-rich dish perfect for any season. This recipe is not only packed with nutrition but also easy to whip up, making it a fantastic go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

The nutty texture of bulgur combined with beans, peppers, and a medley of spices brings a delightful complexity to the classic chili experience. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply aiming to add more plant-based meals into your routine, this bulgur chili will quickly become a staple.

Best of all, it’s customizable and can be tailored to your spice preference or ingredient availability.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bulgur chili recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s nutrient-dense, offering a wonderful source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.

Bulgur acts as a wholesome grain base that keeps you full and energized. Second, it’s incredibly versatile — you can easily adjust the heat level or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

Additionally, this recipe is budget-friendly and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Finally, if you love exploring vegetarian dishes, you might enjoy checking out other creative recipes like Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the zesty Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup bulgur wheat, medium or coarse grind
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Juice of half a lime (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large deep skillet or saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Small bowl (optional, for mixing lime juice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the bulgur: Rinse the bulgur wheat under cold water using a fine sieve. Set aside to drain.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, and grated carrot. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Spice it up: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat and release the spices’ aroma, approximately 1 minute.
5. Add liquids and bulgur: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
6. Cook the bulgur: Add the drained bulgur wheat to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. Incorporate the beans: Stir in the black beans and kidney beans. Simmer uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
8. Final touches: Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice for a subtle brightness.
9. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if using. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

“For extra depth, try roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the chili. You can also swap bulgur for quinoa or brown rice for a different texture.”

• Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Boost protein: Toss in cooked lentils or textured vegetable protein for a heartier meal.
• More veggies: Add zucchini, corn, or mushrooms to incorporate more variety and nutrients.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients (except lime juice and fresh herbs) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
• Freeze leftovers: This chili freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat gently.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bulgur chili is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For a classic touch, offer it with warm cornbread or crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

If you prefer a lighter meal, serve the chili over a bed of fresh greens or alongside a simple avocado salad. You can also top it with dollops of sour cream or vegan yogurt and a sprinkle of shredded cheese or nutritional yeast for extra creaminess.

For a Mexican flair, add sliced jalapeños, diced red onion, and a squeeze of additional lime. Pairing this chili with Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe can round out a fantastic meal.

Conclusion

This bulgur chili recipe vegetarian is a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and wholesome nutrition, making it ideal for those seeking meatless meal options without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and vibrant. The bulgur adds a unique texture and nutritional punch that sets this chili apart from typical bean-only versions.

Plus, the recipe’s adaptability means you can tailor it to your taste or what’s in season.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining friends, this bulgur chili will please a crowd and keep everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the sweet indulgence of Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe for your next culinary adventure.

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