When the weather starts to cool down or you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm bowl of chili. But if you’re following a plant-based lifestyle or simply want to enjoy a meatless, nutritious dish, this vegan green chili recipe is your new go-to!
Packed with vibrant green chilies, tender beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices, this chili balances bold flavors with satisfying textures.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this green chili is flavorful, filling, and free from animal products.
Plus, it’s gluten-free and oil-free, making it a healthy choice for all diets!
Get ready to enjoy a nourishing, spicy, and delicious vegan green chili that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan green chili stands out because it’s:
- Rich in flavor: The combination of roasted green chilies, cumin, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste that’s both spicy and aromatic.
- Hearty and filling: Beans and vegetables add fiber and protein, keeping you satisfied for hours.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this chili is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Customizable: You can adjust the heat level and add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
- Nutritious: Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from fresh produce and legumes.
If you love this recipe, check out other comforting dishes like Chili Recipe Slow Cooker Vegetarian: Easy & Hearty Meal for more hearty plant-based options.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable broth for oil-free)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and diced
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern)
- 1 can (15 oz) green chilies, diced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing spoon
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Roasting pan or grill for peppers
Instructions
- Roast the poblano peppers: Place the poblano peppers under a broiler or on a grill, turning occasionally until the skin is blackened and blistered. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and dice the peppers.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil or vegetable broth in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spices and peppers: Stir in the diced roasted poblano peppers, minced jalapeños, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Combine beans and broth: Add the drained white beans, diced canned green chilies, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the chili: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.
- Blend for creaminess (optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about half of the chili in the pot, or transfer half to a blender and pulse until smooth. Stir back into the chili.
- Finish with fresh ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with extra cilantro, sliced avocado, or your favorite vegan cheese.
Tips & Variations
“Roasting the peppers adds a smoky depth that really elevates the chili’s flavor—don’t skip this step!”
- Make it spicier: Add more jalapeños or include serrano peppers if you like extra heat.
- Use different beans: Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans work great if you want to switch things up.
- Add veggies: Corn, diced zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for extra texture and nutrition.
- Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients (except lime juice and cilantro) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add fresh lime and cilantro before serving.
- Make it oil-free: Use vegetable broth instead of oil for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Serve with toppings: Try vegan sour cream, diced avocado, or sliced green onions for extra flavor.
For more vegan comfort food ideas, don’t miss Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
Sodium | 480 mg |
Vitamin C | 30% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to support your health. The beans provide plant-based protein and fiber, while the green chilies and fresh lime juice add a boost of vitamin C.
Serving Suggestions
This vegan green chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. Here are some favorites:
- Serve over freshly baked vegan bread to soak up all the flavorful juices.
- Top with sliced avocado, diced red onions, and fresh cilantro for a fresh contrast.
- Pair with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Use as a filling for vegan tacos or burritos.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a light, balanced dinner.
Conclusion
This vegan green chili recipe is a fantastic addition to your plant-based cooking repertoire. It’s flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying—a perfect meal for any season.
The combination of smoky roasted poblanos, tender beans, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant dish that’s sure to please both vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste preferences, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or cozy weekend dinners. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables and legumes into your diet while enjoying bold, comforting flavors.
Give this recipe a try and discover how delicious vegan cooking can be!
For more inspiring vegan recipes, explore our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and the decadent Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Green Chili
Description: A flavorful and hearty vegan green chili packed with vegetables and spices. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 poblano peppers, diced
- 3 cups diced tomatillos
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and poblano peppers; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add tomatillos, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add white beans and corn; simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 32 g
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