Vegetarian Chili: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pot Meal

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If you love a warm, comforting bowl of chili but want a meat-free version that’s just as hearty and satisfying, this Vegetarian Chili is exactly what you need! It’s packed with beans, veggies, and bold spices, making it the perfect meal for chilly nights, meal prep, or even game day. Plus, it’s super easy to make—all in one pot!

Even if you’re a meat-lover, this chili is so rich and flavorful that you won’t miss the meat at all. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Seasonings & Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For Toppings (Optional but Delicious!):

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced avocado
  • Shredded cheese (or vegan cheese)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

  1. Heat the Oil – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Onion & Garlic – Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the Bell Pepper, Carrot & Zucchini – Stir in the chopped veggies and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

Step 2: Add the Beans & Tomatoes

  1. Dump in the Beans – Add the black beans and kidney beans, stirring them into the veggies.
  2. Pour in the Diced Tomatoes – Add the canned tomatoes with their juice for extra flavor.
  3. Mix in the Corn & Tomato Paste – Stir in the corn and tomato paste to give the chili a rich texture.

Step 3: Add the Broth & Spices

  1. Pour in the Vegetable Broth – This helps everything simmer and blend together.
  2. Season Well – Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together so the flavors can mix.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

  1. Bring It to a Boil – Turn the heat to high and let the chili come to a boil.
  2. Let It Simmer – Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors deepen and the chili thicken.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

  1. Check the Flavor – After simmering, give it a taste. If you want more spice, add extra chili powder or red pepper flakes. If it’s too thick, add a little more vegetable broth.
  2. Stir One Last Time – Mix everything well and turn off the heat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Ladle the chili into bowls – Serve it hot and steamy!
  2. Add Your Favorite Toppings – Sprinkle on some cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
  3. Pair It with Bread or Chips – Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over rice.

Pro Tips:

  • Make It Spicier – Add a chopped jalapeño or a little cayenne for extra heat.
  • Add More Protein – Toss in quinoa or lentils to make it even heartier.
  • Thicken It Up – If you like a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork before serving.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. It tastes even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Chili:

This Vegetarian Chili is comforting, packed with flavor, and super easy to make. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a lazy night in or when you need something filling but don’t want to spend hours cooking.

Plus, it’s healthy, budget-friendly, and totally customizable. You can mix in your favorite veggies, make it spicy or mild, and load it up with fun toppings.

So grab a spoon and dig in—this chili will warm you right up!

Enjoy your Vegetarian Chili! 😊