Description
This hearty Vegetarian Chili is a comforting, protein-packed one-pot meal made with kidney beans, pinto beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and chipotle peppers. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, it’s perfect for cold nights, busy weeknights, or meal prep. Bold, smoky, and satisfying, it’s a bowl of plant-based comfort everyone will love.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup water or vegetable broth
3 chipotle peppers in adobo, diced
3 tablespoons adobo sauce
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving
Optional Toppings:
Avocado
Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative
Jalapeño or serrano peppers
Fresh cilantro
Pickled onions
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
Add Bell Pepper: Stir in red bell pepper and cook 5–8 minutes until softened.
Add Spices: Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin (if using). Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine Main Ingredients: Add fire-roasted tomatoes, both beans, water or broth, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, corn, and salt. Add more black pepper to taste and stir well.
Simmer: Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish with Lime: Stir in lime juice, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and add desired toppings.
Notes
Start with one chipotle pepper for mild heat; add more if desired.
Mash some beans during simmering for a thicker consistency.
Tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
Great for batch cooking and freezing.
Easily adaptable with added vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup / Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Southwestern