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Easy & Hearty Vegan Black Bean Chili

Close-up of a white bowl filled with steaming hot black bean chili, rich in sauce and visible beans.

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Make this easy black bean chili for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting weeknight dinner. This recipe is packed with plant-based protein and comes together quickly.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rinsed black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and vegetable broth.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for 45 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust spices as needed.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings. This is a great recipe for meal prep.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor, use chipotle powder instead of cayenne pepper.
  • If you want a thicker chili, mash about 1/2 cup of the beans against the side of the pot before simmering.
  • To make this a Beef and Black Bean Chili, brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey before adding the onions and peppers, then drain excess fat.
  • This recipe is naturally high fiber.

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