This hearty and wholesome vegetarian chili recipe is a perfect meal for cozy evenings, potlucks or quick weeknight dinners. Made with fresh veggies, beans, spices and herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at why you’ll love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s easy to make.
- It’s healthy and filling.
- The ingredients are affordable and readily available.
- It can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 2 cups of mushrooms (button or portobello), sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Spices - 4 tbsp chili powder
- Paprika
- Salt & black pepper
- Cayenne pepper
Liquid - Diced tomato canned x3 (28 oz total)
- Vegetable broth x1 quart/4 cups
Beans - Kidney Beans canned x2 (15 oz each)
- Black beans canned x1(15oz)
How To Make This recipe
Step One: Cook the Veggies
In a large pot over medium-high heat add olive oil until heated through before adding onion then garlic. Sautée for approximately two minutes then add green/red/yellow peppers; cook on high heat stirring frequently till they start to soften about five minutes. Add in the mushroom slices along with both types of bean cans drained of their liquid contents – continue cooking another five mins while stirring every now-and-then as necessary so everything cooks evenly.
Step Two: Add Tomatoes
Pour three cans of diced tomatoes into the pot along with one quart of vegetable broth. Stir evenly and bring to a boil then decrease the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Step Three: Add Seasonings
After twenty minutes add in paprika, salt & black pepper, cayenne pepper, and chili powder. Optional: Tabasco sauce or hot sauce to taste. Stir well after each addition then continue cooking on medium-low heat for an additional ten mins uncovered.
Cooking time guidelines
Prep time: 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 mins
My Pro-tips
- If too spicy add a pinch of sugar or honey.
- For more flavor roast your veggies before adding them into the pot.
- Try topping it off with sour cream or shredded cheese for added richness!
Seasoning Options
This recipe can be easily customized! Here are some variations:
– Swap out chili powder for cumin if you prefer a smoky flavor.
– Experiment by adding additional spices such as oregano or thyme!
– For milder spice levels remove or reduce Cayenne Pepper from seasoning list as desired.
Recipe Tips
- Feel free to use canned beans instead of dry; just make sure they have been drained before using (make sure not purchasing refried beans).
- Cutting your vegetables in block-like shapes will make dicing easier later while also providing some texture variety throughout the dish.
## Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
* Large Pot
To sum Up:
The biggest takeaway from this recipe is that it is versatile and easy-to-make vegetarian chili that packs tons of flavour and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re craving something hearty for dinner tonight or looking for a crowd pleaser at your next potluck – Grandma’s Vegetarian Chili has got you covered!
FAQs
Can I make this chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Answer: Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe to cook in a slow cooker. Simply brown the veggies and spices first, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is this chili recipe freezer-friendly?
Answer: Absolutely! This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freezes well for up to a month. Reheat gently on the stove (add water if needed) or microwave until heated through.
How can I adjust the level of spiciness in this chili recipe?
Answer: The spiciness level of this chili can be adjusted according to your preference. If you like mild heat, simply omit or reduce the amount of cayenne pepper called for in the recipe. If you prefer spicy food, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or use diced jalapeño peppers instead of bell peppers.
I hope these FAQs help clarify any questions readers may have about making “Grandma’s Vegetarian Chili Recipe”.
