Description

A cozy and satisfying Vegetarian Chili packed with a hearty mix of fresh vegetables, beans, and warming spices. This nutrient-rich and flavorful dish offers a comforting, meatless meal perfect for any season, customizable to your preferred spice level and vegetable choices.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Beans

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup corn kernels
1 large bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Protein and Smoky Flavor

4 oz smoked turkey bacon, sliced into small pieces

Spices and Flavorings (natural)

2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Liquid and Thickening

2 cups vegetable broth
1–2 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the onions, garlic, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly, and slice the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Sauté the Aromatics and Turkey Bacon: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the smoked turkey bacon. Cook until lightly crispy, then add the onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant to build a savory foundation.
Add Peppers and Spices: Stir in the diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Let the spices bloom for a couple of minutes while stirring constantly to release their full flavor potential.
Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so all the ingredients begin to meld together beautifully.
Thicken with Natural Gelling Agent: Sprinkle in a small amount of your chosen natural gelling agent to help thicken the chili, stirring continuously. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Final Taste and Adjustments: Taste your vegetarian chili and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt, pepper, or extra chili powder for heat. Once it reaches your perfect flavor balance, remove from heat and prepare to enjoy!

Notes

Layer flavors by allowing spices to toast slightly in oil for enhanced depth.
Don’t rush simmering; longer cooking melds flavors and softens ingredients perfectly.
Add acidity last: a splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the dish right before serving.
Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added at the end to lift freshness.
Balance textures by mixing creamy beans with crunchy veggies for an enjoyable bite.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 10 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: vegetarian chili, healthy chili, meatless chili, black beans chili, plant-based chili, cozy dinner