Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare? This Healthy Vegetarian Chili Recipe is packed with protein-rich beans, fresh vegetables, and bold spices to satisfy your taste buds. Not only is it rich in fiber and antioxidants, but it’s also low in fat and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a meatless Monday option, this chili is a must-try!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth (adjust for desired thickness)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Optional Toppings for Vegetarian Chili Recipe
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado slices
- Shredded cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- Lime wedges
Substitutes:
- Swap zucchini for mushrooms for a heartier texture.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a sweeter flavor.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing chili powder and cayenne.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegetarian Chili Recipe
- Saute the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Incorporate the Beans & Tomatoes: Add black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Season the Chili: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir thoroughly.
- Pour in the Broth & Simmer: Add vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust & Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If the chili is too thick, add more broth. Stir in corn during the last 5 minutes.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, or shredded cheese.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
Health Benefits:
- Beans: High in fiber and protein, keeping you full longer.
- Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
- Zucchini & Carrots: Rich in vitamins A and C for immune support.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- Make It Protein-Rich: Add quinoa or lentils for extra plant-based protein.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty whole-grain bread.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with brown rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
FAQs
Can I freeze this vegetarian chili recipe?
Yes! Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 3 months.
How can I make this chili thicker?
Mash some of the beans or let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid.
What can I use instead of beans?
You can swap beans for lentils or crumbled tofu for a different texture.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This Delicious Healthy Vegetarian Chili is the perfect comfort food for any season. It’s nutritious, easy to make, and packed with flavors the whole family will love! Try it out and let us know what you think. Leave a comment, rate the Vegetarian Chili Recipe , and follow our blog for more healthy meal ideas!
