If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and totally satisfying vegetarian chili, look no further than Chrissy Teigen’s take on this classic comfort food. Known for her approachable and delicious recipes, Chrissy’s vegetarian chili combines a medley of fresh vegetables, robust spices, and protein-packed beans to create a dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a warm bowl of goodness.
Whether you’re a committed vegetarian or simply looking to add more meatless meals to your rotation, this chili hits all the right notes—rich, spicy, and full of texture.
This recipe is also wonderfully customizable and comes together with pantry staples and fresh produce, making it both convenient and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of Chrissy Teigen’s vegetarian chili, a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chrissy Teigen’s vegetarian chili stands out because of its perfect balance of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s packed with a variety of beans, crunchy vegetables, and warming spices that create layers of taste with every bite.
This chili is:
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of beans and vegetables offers plenty of protein and fiber, keeping you satisfied and energized.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, it’s a great option for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy it steaming hot in winter or as a deliciously spicy treat in warmer months.
It also suits a variety of diets, making it a crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for vegetarians, vegans (just omit the optional cheese or sour cream), or omnivores.
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 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 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
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, tortilla chips
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
- Colander or sieve (for rinsing beans)
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: Dice the onion, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and jalapeño. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeño to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the diced bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes: Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and pour in the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Add beans and broth: Drain and rinse the black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Add all three to the pot along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
- Finish with lime juice: Remove from heat and stir in the juice of one lime to brighten the flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips as desired.
Tips & Variations
“To make this chili vegan, simply skip the cheese and sour cream toppings or use plant-based alternatives.”
- Beans: Feel free to swap out any beans for your favorites, such as chickpeas or white beans, depending on what you have available.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño or add cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
- Vegetables: Try adding corn, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- Slow cooker option: After sautéing the aromatics and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
- Meal prep friendly: This chili stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80% DV |
| Vitamin C | 70% DV |
| Iron | 25% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chili is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides and toppings:
- Over rice or quinoa: Serve chili spooned over fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- With cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread is a classic companion that complements the spicy heat.
- Topped with avocado or guacamole: Adds creamy richness to balance the chili’s spices.
- With tortilla chips or warm tortillas: Great for scooping or wrapping.
- Garnished with shredded cheese or plant-based cheese: Melts beautifully on hot chili for extra indulgence.
For more delicious vegetarian options, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, or if you want to add a meaty twist to your dinner, try the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe. And for a tangy snack or side, don’t miss the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.
Conclusion
Chrissy Teigen’s vegetarian chili is a fantastic recipe that brings warmth, nutrition, and bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s a wonderful introduction to vegetarian cooking for those who may be hesitant to skip meat, thanks to its hearty texture and satisfying taste.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a comforting solo meal, this chili adapts well and holds up beautifully as leftovers.
With its straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this chili can become a reliable favorite in your recipe collection. Plus, it’s a great canvas for experimenting with different veggies or spice levels to make it uniquely yours.
So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this nourishing, flavorful vegetarian chili that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
📖 Recipe Card: Chrissy Teigen Vegetarian Chili
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili inspired by Chrissy Teigen, packed with beans, vegetables, and spices. Perfect for a cozy meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
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 carrots; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add black beans and kidney beans; stir to combine.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve with optional toppings.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 50 g
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