Chili Recipe Vegetarian Chipotle Sauce for Bold Flavor

If you’re searching for a hearty, smoky, and satisfying vegetarian chili that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This chili recipe with vegetarian chipotle sauce brings together the smoky heat of chipotle peppers and the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables and beans.

Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests, this dish combines rich spices, a velvety chipotle sauce, and a medley of plant-based proteins that will keep you warm and fueled all day long.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more meatless meals to your rotation, this chili is a crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with fiber, protein, and vibrant flavors that will make you forget it’s meatless.

Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or beans. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be your next go-to chili!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky and Spicy: The chipotle sauce adds a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the chili far beyond the usual tomato base.

Protein-Packed and Nutrient-Rich: Featuring black beans, kidney beans, and lentils, this chili is filling and nutritious without any meat.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or batch cooking.

Versatile: You can adjust the heat, swap veggies, or add toppings to suit your taste buds perfectly.

Bonus: This chili freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it anytime with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetarian Chipotle Sauce:

• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Water as needed to thin

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Blender or food processor (for chipotle sauce)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Can opener
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the chipotle sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, garlic powder, and onion powder. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable consistency. Set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, and carrot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add zucchini and spices: Stir in the diced zucchini, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften and the spices become fragrant.
4. Add beans, lentils, and tomatoes: Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
5. Incorporate chipotle sauce: Pour the prepared chipotle sauce into the pot. Stir well to distribute the smoky flavor evenly throughout the chili.
6. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chipotle heat as needed. If you want it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or extra chipotle sauce.
8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or shredded vegan cheese.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra creamy texture, stir in a spoonful of cashew cream or coconut milk just before serving.”

• Beans: Feel free to swap kidney beans or black beans with chickpeas or pinto beans.
• Veggies: Swap zucchini for corn or add mushrooms for a meatier texture.
• Heat level: Adjust chipotle peppers according to your spice tolerance. Start with one pepper and add more if desired.
• Meal Prep: This chili tastes even better the next day and freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Make it gluten-free: Ensure your vegetable broth and all ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chipotle chili is a fantastic standalone meal, but you can also serve it with a few tasty accompaniments:

• Warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping
• Steamed rice or quinoa to make it more filling
• A dollop of vegan sour cream or plain yogurt
• Fresh avocado slices or guacamole
• Sprinkled with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice

For a festive touch, try serving this chili with a side of Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add some pickled heat with Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. These pair beautifully with the smoky flavors of the chipotle sauce.

Conclusion

This chili recipe with vegetarian chipotle sauce is a perfect blend of smoky heat, hearty vegetables, and satisfying plant-based proteins. It’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a meat-free meal without sacrificing flavor or comfort.

The chipotle sauce is a game-changer, infusing the chili with a rich depth that makes every bite memorable.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this chili is a versatile, delicious, and nutritious option. Plus, it freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or busy nights.

Next time you’re in the mood for a smoky, spicy, and wholesome meal, give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite.

For more delicious recipes to complement your cooking adventures, check out our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or satisfy your sweet tooth with the creamy Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe. Happy cooking!

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