Chipotle Chili Recipe Vegan: Easy, Flavorful & Healthy

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili to warm you up on a chilly evening, and this vegan chipotle chili recipe is a smoky, spicy twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with protein-rich beans, fire-roasted chipotle peppers, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-powered meals to your repertoire, this chili is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you full for hours.

What sets this chili apart is the deep, smoky heat from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, which balances beautifully with the sweetness of bell peppers and the earthiness of cumin and smoked paprika.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for meal prepping, and freezes beautifully for those busy weeknights. Ready to dive into a bowl of cozy deliciousness?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chipotle vegan chili is a standout for several reasons. First, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients that provide both nutrition and flavor without relying on any animal products.

The chipotle peppers add a smoky, spicy kick that transforms a simple chili into something extraordinary.

It’s also highly customizable. Whether you prefer it milder, packed with beans, or loaded with extra veggies, you can easily adjust to suit your preferences.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. If you’re a fan of batch cooking, this chili freezes well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

For those interested in exploring more comforting recipes, you might enjoy our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or try a completely different protein-packed dish like our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add minced garlic, red and green bell peppers to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peppers are softened.
3. Stir in the chipotle peppers along with their adobo sauce. Mix well to coat the veggies and release the smoky aroma.
4. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavors.
5. Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute, letting it caramelize slightly for added depth.
6. Add crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
7. Add the drained and rinsed beans and corn kernels to the pot. Stir gently to distribute everything evenly.
8. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The chili should thicken and flavors will meld beautifully.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chipotle peppers for extra heat.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t rush the simmering process! Letting the chili cook low and slow really brings out the complex flavors and gives the beans a chance to soak up the smoky chipotle heat.”

Substitute Beans: Feel free to swap any beans for your favorites, such as chickpeas or navy beans. Just ensure they are cooked or canned and drained.

Make it Smokier: For an even smokier taste, add a teaspoon of smoked salt or a dash of liquid smoke.

Add More Vegetables: Toss in some diced zucchini or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost.

Slow Cooker Adaptation: After sautéing the veggies and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the beans, tomatoes, and broth, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Looking for something sweet to balance these smoky flavors? Check out our delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a perfect dessert pairing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chipotle chili is delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it over steamed brown rice or quinoa for a filling meal.

Alternatively, spoon it into warmed corn tortillas for vegan chili tacos.

Top with sliced avocado, vegan sour cream, or shredded vegan cheese to add creaminess and richness. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips on top.

If you enjoy this chili, you may also appreciate the vibrant flavors in the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe—a perfect spicy condiment to complement your meal.

Conclusion

This vegan chipotle chili recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a smoky, hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or meal prep lineup.

The combination of beans, chipotle peppers, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced dish that will keep you coming back for seconds.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile — perfect for customizing based on what you have on hand or your heat tolerance. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting guests, this chili will be a crowd-pleaser.

Don’t forget to explore more exciting recipes like the Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese for a sweet treat after dinner or the savory Personalized Recipe Book Stand to organize all your favorite dishes!

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