Homemade Vegetarian Chili

Name: Homemade Vegetarian Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red and yellow); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 19, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Homemade Vegetarian Chili is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The blend of spices creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
Great as a main dish or served alongside cornbread for a cozy meal

I’ll never forget how my friends devoured every last drop that night, leaving only empty bowls behind and lots of happy faces.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Canned Beans: Use black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for protein-packed goodness; they add richness and texture. hearty black bean soup recipe.
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red and yellow for added sweetness and crunch in every bite. creamy vegan sweet potato soup.
Onion: A classic base; sauté until translucent for a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic unleashes an irresistible aroma that elevates the whole dish; don’t skimp! For more inspiration, check out this Fresh Herbed Tuna Salad recipe.
Crushed Tomatoes: Use canned for convenience; they provide the saucy base that binds all flavors together.
Spices (Cumin, Chili Powder): Essential for that warm, spicy kick; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth to your chili.
Corn (Frozen or Fresh): For sweetness and texture; it brightens up the dish with every delightful bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by gathering all your ingredients so you’re ready for action.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, stirring until fragrant and softened—about 3 minutes should do the trick.

Add the Veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers along with corn. Stir well until they soften slightly—around 5 minutes is perfect for vibrant colors.

Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes: Add drained canned beans and crushed tomatoes into the mix. Stir until everything is combined beautifully—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Season Generously: Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the mixture. Adjust salt and pepper to taste; this is where you can make it as spicy as you like!

Pour in Vegetable Broth: Carefully add vegetable broth while stirring gently. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low; let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.

Serve Up Your Creation!: Once thickened to your liking, ladle into bowls. Top with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired—it adds great flavor and freshness!

Enjoy this Homemade Vegetarian Chili with crusty bread or tortilla chips for an extra treat! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.

You’ve now created a comforting meal that not only warms your belly but also brings people together. What’s better than sharing good food with great company?

You Must Know

Homemade Vegetarian Chili is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
The rich flavors and hearty textures make it perfect for chilly evenings, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or beans
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra nutrients!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add peppers, spices, and tomatoes before the beans. roasted fennel and white bean soup This order builds layers of flavor for the best homemade vegetarian chili.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beans or add in corn for sweetness. A dash of smoked paprika can also elevate the smokiness, while fresh herbs can brighten up the overall dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover homemade vegetarian chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, simmer gently on the stove for even heat distribution.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your homemade vegetarian chili more flavorful, let it simmer longer for deeper taste
Always taste before serving—adjust seasoning as needed
If you want more heat, experiment with different chili powders or fresh peppers

Sometimes I whip up a batch of homemade vegetarian chili when friends drop by unexpectedly. Their delighted faces remind me why I love cooking—food truly brings us together!

FAQ

Can I use canned beans for homemade vegetarian chili?

Absolutely! Canned beans are convenient and save time without sacrificing flavor.

How do I thicken my homemade vegetarian chili?

For thicker chili, mash some beans or add cornmeal during cooking.

What toppings go well with homemade vegetarian chili?

Consider avocado, cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to enhance your chili experience!

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