Best Vegan Chili Recipe (2024)

by plant.well

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(Last Updated On: August 21, 2023)

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This homemade vegan chili recipe is packed with so much flavor!

It has veggies, three kinds of beans, corn, peppers, tomatoes, and quinoa.

Quinoa is really the secret ingredient in this recipe, it makes the soup that much heartier and adds even more protein.

This one pot chili recipe is perfect anytime, and it’s on the table in no less than 30 minutes!

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (1)

This vegan chili is one of my most favorite comfort foods to make.

When I’m in need of something quick and fuss-free that’s warming and hearty, this chili is a no-brainer!

A delicious one-pot recipe that simmers all the ingredients and flavors together with minimal effort on my part – perfection!

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (2)

Easy Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

This yummy chili has three types of beans: black beans, kidney beans and pinto beans.

It also has corn, peppers, tomatoes, quinoa and spices like chili powder, cumin and smoked paprika.

These flavors combine perfectly with the onion, garlic and veggie stock base, creating a soup that’s healthy and full of flavor.

Another thing I love about this recipe is that the ingredients are very pantry friendly.

Canned beans, quinoa, veggie stock and spices can be kept in the pantry, and any corn or other veggies of choice can be frozen.

It’s so convenient and the only thing you really need that’s fresh is onion and garlic (if you’re feeling extra lazy, sometimes I even sub these for dried powders so I don’t have to chop anything!).

If you’re looking for a similar recipe, my Vegan Stuffed Peppers are stuffed with many of the same ingredients and baked to perfection!

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (4)

How to Make Vegan Chili

Cooking the Base

To start making this yummy soup, start by placing the olive oil, chopped onion, garlic and pepper into a large pot over medium heat.

Cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally, and that’s your base!

Cooking Vegan Chili

Now add the remaining ingredients all at the same time (except for the corn).

Give it a good stir and cover.

Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is soft and has cracked open.

Finally add the corn and cook another minute or two to heat through, and it’s done!

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Serving Vegan Chili

This chili is delicious served plain, or you can add toppings like avocado, green onion, dairy-free sour cream, crumbled chips, dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor!

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (6)

Easy and Delicious Vegan Chili Recipe

This easy soup recipe is a staple in my house, and especially during the colder winter months.

There’s nothing more warming and comforting than a fresh bowl of homemade chili!

Also, it’s even better on day two and three after all the flavors have marinated together!

I would eat this up by days four or five though for best taste.

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (7)
Best Vegan Chili Recipe (8)

This recipe is:

  • Homemade
  • Healthy
  • Delicious
  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • High Protein
  • Comforting
  • Easy to Make

Check out these other comforting vegan recipes:

Easy Vegan Beef Stew

Vegan Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

Vegan African Peanut Soup

Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Rosemary Potato Veggie Soup

Butternut Squash and Fennel Soup

Best Vegan Tortilla Soup

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (9)

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Best Vegan Chili Recipe (10)
Best Vegan Chili Recipe (11)

Yield: 6 Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

The best ever vegan chili recipe packed with flavor, quinoa, beans and corn. Easy to make and perfectly comforting and delicious.

Instructions

  1. Add olive oil, chopped onion, pepper and garlic to a large pot over medium heat. Cook for 5-8 minutes or until onions are translucent.
  2. Add the rest of the ingredients (except the corn), bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender (you can tell it's done if you see the seed split apart too). Then add the corn and cook for a minute or two until soft.
  3. Enjoy with toppings of choice!

Notes

*If you like your chili nice and thick, serve as is, otherwise you can add a splash of vegetable stock or water to make it more soupy.

**This chili is even better on day two and three after all the flavors have marinated together! I would eat this up by days four and five though for best taste.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 390Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 691mgCarbohydrates: 67gFiber: 20gSugar: 12gProtein: 19g

Best Vegan Chili Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to best chili? ›

Paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, oregano and cumin. You can also substitute or also add in some chipotle chili powder for more heat and smoky flavor. Flavor Enhancing Tip – mix chili powder into the raw ground beef before cooking to ensure every morsel is seasoned to perfection.

What can I use in chili instead of meat? ›

Let's Talk Vegetarian Chili “Meat”

This vegetarian chili features a hearty mixture of walnuts, mushrooms, and carrots that can beautifully stand in place of your ground beef and absorbs the big flavors of sautéed onion and garlic, diced green chiles, and all those spices.

What is vegan chili made of? ›

This Vegan Chili is a moderately-spiced, tomato-y stew loaded with chunks of celery, onion, green bell pepper, and carrot. Spices like ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic, and cayenne pepper add some body to the chili, while kidney beans and pinto beans give a hearty and creamy texture.

Is chili pepper vegan? ›

Yes. If you are mindful of the healthy aspects when choosing and preparing the ingredients, you'll be golden. I make a pot of vegetarian chilli with lots of onions, roasted Chiles and spices.

What secret ingredient will deepen the flavor of your chili? ›

Stir some puréed pumpkin into your chili just after sautéing your aromatics (onions, garlic, etc...) and before adding any liquid. This will deepen and sweeten its flavor, making it a great balance for all the chile peppers and heat.

What is the most important spice in chili? ›

Most Common Chili Spices. Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of top notch comfort food.

What not to put in chili? ›

Beans and non-vegetable fillers such as rice and pasta are not allowed." If that sounds a bit uptight, the ICS's Homestyle Chili competition defines chili as: "any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients.

What makes homemade chili better? ›

When making chili, don't forget to load up on veggies for an added layer of flavor and texture. Some classic options include fresh garlic, bell peppers, and onions. The vegetables will add a noticeable crunch and pop of color to your recipe. Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor.

Should you put carrots in chili? ›

thinly sliced carrots

Carrot "coins" often make an appearance in autumn stews, but they can also add a nutritional punch to beef chili. Plus, isn't the phrase "carrot coin" fun? Plan an activity over dinner with your children to see if they can find (and eat) all the carrot coins.

How do you thicken vegan chili? ›

Stir in some finely ground cornmeal or masa harina.

Start by stirring 1 to 2 tablespoons into your chili, allow the stew to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes more, and it should thicken up a bit. Masa harina (an instantly binding corn flour) also works beautifully to absorb liquid.

What are the best beans for chili? ›

The best beans for chili are pinto, kidney, and black beans, like in this easy and tasty recipe. This 3-bean chili freezes great for meals later in the week. If you prefer thinner chili, add an extra can of tomato sauce. The green chiles are not hot and add a wonderful flavor, so don't be afraid to use them.

What chilli sauce is vegan? ›

What Lee Kum Kee Sriracha Chili Sauce delivers is a pleasant garlic kick with a blend of tangy undertones, a hint of sweetness, and a fiery aftertaste-- this is Asian fusion in a bottle. Get ready to turn any dish into a mouthwatering meal. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Why is Dr Pepper not vegan? ›

Yes, Dr Pepper is a vegan-friendly drink. Whilst it's made from a combination of natural and artificial ingredients, it doesn't contain any animal products or byproducts in its manufacturing process.

What is a chili without meat called? ›

Vegetarian chili (also known as chili sin carne, chili without meat, chili non carne, and chili sans carne) acquired wide popularity in the U.S. during the 1960s and 1970s with the rise of vegetarianism. It is also popular with those on a diet restricting the use of red meat.

How do you add richness to chili? ›

Here are some of the most common (and most effective) flavor boosters to add to your chili recipe.
  1. Booze (Beer, Wine, or Liquor) ...
  2. Liquid Smoke. ...
  3. Brine or Vinegar. ...
  4. Soy Sauce. ...
  5. Fish Sauce. ...
  6. Worcestershire Sauce. ...
  7. Coffee or Espresso Powder. ...
  8. Chocolate.
Aug 23, 2021

What makes can chili taste better? ›

Although canned chili will already have some seasonings, fresh herbs and spices will add bolder flavor. You can upgrade your chili using ingredients you likely already have on your spice rack, such as chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

What makes a good competition chili? ›

Chili must: LOOK GOOD, SMELL GOOD and TASTE GOOD. If in a competition, it must do so lukewarm in a styrofoam cup. It also must look good on as small plastic teaspoon used for judging and tasting. Chili that doesn't win violates one or more of the three basics.

What is the most flavorful meat for chili? ›

The best meat for chili depends on the type you're making, but professionals generally use a combination of ground chuck, brisket, short ribs, or diced tri-tip sirloin mixed with bacon and sausage to layer multiple textures and flavors.

How does Martha Stewart make chili? ›

Add chili powder, cocoa, and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes more. Add tomatoes, broth, and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, until thickened slightly, 25 to 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; serve with sour cream and chives.

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