Smoky Chipotle Vegan Chili

Smoky Chipotle Vegan Chili: A Spicy, Hearty Delight for Chili Lovers

Delve into the robust flavors of this Smoky Chipotle Vegan Chili, designed to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and spicy. Whether you stumbled upon this recipe in search of a warming winter meal or a nutritious plant-based option, this chili promises to deliver on both taste and comfort. Its deep flavors and straightforward preparation make it a go-to for any chili enthusiast.

The Story Behind This Smoky Delight!

The inspiration for this smoky chipotle vegan chili comes from a love of traditional comfort foods and the desire to create a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Infused with the boldness of chipotle peppers and balanced with a medley of beans and vegetables, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s a dish that pays homage to classic chili while offering a fresh, vegan twist that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chili

• Rich and Smoky Taste: The combination of chipotle peppers and smoked paprika ensures a deep, smoky flavor that’s irresistibly delicious.
• Nutrient-Packed Ingredients: Loaded with fiber-rich beans and a variety of vegetables, this chili is as nutritious as it is flavorful.
• Simple and Flexible: Easy to make and perfect for customization, you can tweak this recipe to suit your taste or whatever’s in your pantry.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep for the week.

Quick Grocery List

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell peppers
• Carrot
• Black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans
• Crushed tomatoes
• Vegetable broth
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• Tomato paste

What to Know Before You Start

• Prep & Cook Time: 55 minutes total
• Equipment Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board
• Dietary Notes: Vegan, can be made gluten-free with appropriate broth and adobo sauce
• Serving Size: Serves 6 comfortably

Smoky Chipotle Vegan Chili – Hearty, Spicy Plant-Based Chili Packed with Beans, Vegetables & Chipotle Peppers

DifficultyEasy

Servings6

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time40 minutes

Total time55 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Chili Base:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp adobo sauce from the chipotle can
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

For the Spice Mix:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt, (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp cinnamon, (optional, for depth)

Instructions:

• 1

  1. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and carrot. Sauté for 7–8 minutes until softened.
• 2

  2. Build the Flavor

  1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Add the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and all spices. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
• 3

  3. Add the Beans & Liquids

  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all three types of beans.
  2. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
• 4

  4. Simmer the Chili

  1. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 25–30 minutes.
  2. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to thin.
• 5

  5. Taste & Serve

  1. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  2. Serve hot with toppings like avocado, cilantro, vegan cheese, or cornbread.

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Can opener

Nutrition

Calories	290
Carbohydrates	38g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	7g
Fiber	13g
Protein	14g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	520mg
Sugar	7g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	6g

Substitutions and Variations

• Beans: Feel free to use chickpeas, navy beans, or even lentils.
• Veggies: Add zucchini, sweet potatoes, or corn to mix things up.
• Less Heat: Reduce or omit chipotle peppers and add smoked paprika for smokiness without the spice.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vegan Chili

• Layer Flavors: Start with sautéing aromatics like onion and garlic before adding spices for maximum flavor development.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow your chili to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Consistency: Use the back of your spoon to mash some of the beans directly in the pot for a thicker texture.

Mastering the Art of Vegan Chili

Understanding how to balance spices and seasonings is key to creating a delicious vegan chili. Consider experimenting with different types of chili powders or smoked spices to find your perfect blend. Additionally, mastering the simmering process ensures that every spoonful is rich in flavor and perfectly cooked.

Nutritional Insight

• Calories: 290 per serving
• Carbohydrates: Offer energy for your day.
• Fiber: Essential for digestive health, provided abundantly by the beans.
• Protein: A great source from beans, making this a fulfilling meal.
• Low in Sugar: Making it a healthier choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Storing and Reheating Your Chili

To keep this chili tasting its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within five days. For reheating, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Common Questions About Vegan Chili

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Just sauté your aromatics beforehand to deepen the flavors before adding everything to the slow cooker.

Q: What are the best toppings for vegan chili?
A: Avocado, cilantro, and vegan cheese are excellent choices that complement the smoky flavor of the chili.

Q: How can I make this chili less spicy?
A: Reduce the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to suit your heat preference.

Feel free to share your own versions or ask questions in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, explore other plant-based delights below:

• Spicy Black Bean Tacos with Fresh Cilantro
• Savory Thyme-Infused Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
• Smoky Brazilian Feijoada with Jackfruit and Black Beans
• Sizzling Seitan Mexican Fajitas with Bell Peppers