Easy Vegan Chili for a Hearty, Comforting, and Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Meal

Adam

Easy Vegan Chili for a Hearty, Comforting, and Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Meal

This Easy Vegan Chili is rich, cozy, and deeply satisfying—everything you want in a comforting bowl of chili, made entirely with plant-based ingredients. Packed with tender beans, vegetables, warm spices, and a thick tomato base, it’s a simple one-pot recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for: Weeknight dinners Meal prep lunches Cozy family meals A budget-friendly, protein-rich vegan dish This chili is mildly sweet, warmly spiced, and customizable, making it a crowd-pleaser even for non-vegans.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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Ingredients

Balanced for hearty texture bold chili flavor, and plant-based nutrition.

Vegetables & Aromatics

2 tablespoons oil
½ medium yellow onion diced
2 medium carrots diced
4 cloves garlic minced

Beans

3 15-ounce cans beans, drained and rinsed
Any mix of kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, or white beans

Tomato Base & Liquids

1 6-ounce can tomato paste
2 cups vegetable broth

Vegetables

1 cup corn frozen or canned

Spices & Seasoning

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons sugar
Salt to taste
Using a mix of beans gives the chili great texture and protein.

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Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener

Method

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Bloom the Spices

Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir constantly for 30–60 seconds until the spices become aromatic.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5: Build the Chili

Pour in the vegetable broth and stir until smooth. Add the drained beans and corn. Mix well.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Season and Adjust

Stir in the sugar and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to fully develop.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days

Freezing

Freeze for up to 2 months

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop or microwave

Add a splash of broth if needed

The chili thickens and tastes even better the next day.

🥄 Variations

Customize your Easy Vegan Chili easily:

Spicier: Add chili flakes or extra chili powder

Thicker: Mash some of the beans before simmering

Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or zucchini

Smokier: Increase smoked paprika

Low Sugar: Reduce or omit sugar

Each variation keeps the chili hearty and comforting.

❓ 10 FAQs

Is this chili spicy?
Mild to medium—adjust chili powder as needed.

Can I use dried beans?
Yes, but cook them fully before adding.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s warm and mild.

Does it freeze well?
Yes, very well.

Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely—great for meal prep.

What beans work best?
Any combination of beans works.

Why add sugar?
It balances acidity from the tomato paste.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily.

What can I serve with it?
Rice, baked potatoes, or bread.

🏁 Conclusion

This Easy Vegan Chili is warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavor—proof that plant-based meals can be deeply satisfying. With simple pantry ingredients and one pot, it’s an easy recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or craving a cozy dinner, this chili delivers comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor in every bowl.