Vegetarian black bean chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or entertaining a crowd. Packed with protein-rich black beans, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, this chili is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. In this blog post, we’ll share an easy-to-follow recipe for vegetarian black bean chili, along with answering common questions and providing variations to suit different dietary preferences. Get ready to warm up with a bowl of deliciousness!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 4 (15.5 ounce) cans Black beans
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 2 Green bell peppers
- 4 Onions
- 2 tbsp Oregano, dried
- 2 Red bell peppers
- 2 (15 ounce) cans Tomatoes
Refrigerated:
- 1 (14 ounce) package Tofu, firm
Condiments:
- 1 tbsp Liquid hot pepper sauce
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 6 tbsp Chili powder
- 2 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Cumin, ground
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp Distilled white vinegar
- 1/2 cup Olive oil
Instructions
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the green and red bell peppers.
- Drain and rinse the black beans.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Crumble the firm tofu into the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Add the drained black beans, canned tomatoes (with their juices), chili powder, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, and liquid hot pepper sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, chili powder, or hot sauce to taste.
- Just before serving, stir in the distilled white vinegar for a pop of acidity.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Texture Variation: For a thicker chili, mash some of the black beans with a fork or potato masher before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as corn, carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Toppings: Serve your chili with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or diced green onions.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and hot sauce to your preference. For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the hot sauce altogether.
- Slow Cooker Method: This chili can also be prepared in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some adjustments you can make to this black bean chili recipe:
- Keto Version: Omit the black beans and tofu and replace them with low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini. Increase the amount of protein by adding diced chicken breast, ground turkey, or beef.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of black beans and tofu in the recipe and increase the proportion of vegetables. Use a minimal amount of chili powder and hot sauce to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried black beans instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use dried black beans for this recipe. However, you’ll need to soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the chili.
Q: How long will this chili keep in the refrigerator? A: This chili will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Vegetarian black bean chili is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual dinner at home or bringing it to a potluck gathering, this hearty chili is sure to be a hit. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to simmer up a pot of vegetarian black bean chili that’s guaranteed to warm your soul. From the first spoonful to the last, you’ll be savoring every flavorful bite.
Enjoy!
