This Three Bean Vegetarian Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for satisfying meals on a budget. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it an excellent choice for budget friendly dinner recipes any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beans: Use any combination of canned black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans, or great northern beans. Just be sure to rinse them!
- Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes work well too for a smoother consistency.
- Vegetable Broth: Water can be used in a pinch, but broth adds more flavor.
- Chili Powder: Adjust to your spice preference. Smoked paprika can add depth.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, cornbread
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine All Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything thoroughly.
3. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Season and Serve
Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite additions like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro. This makes for fantastic budget friendly dinner recipes.
Variation Ideas
- Add a cup of frozen corn or diced carrots during the simmering step for extra vegetables.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a deeper, richer flavor.
- For a smoky kick, add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.
- Serve over rice or with a side of crusty bread.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Three Bean Vegetarian Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This chili freezes well too; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. It’s a perfect meal prep option.
What kind of beans are best for chili?
A mix of beans, like black, kidney, and pinto, provides a great texture and variety of flavors. You can use any combination you prefer.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on how much cayenne pepper you add. You can omit it entirely for a mild chili or add more for extra heat.
Can you make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What are some good toppings for this chili?
Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and green onions. Crumbled tortilla chips also add a nice crunch.
Is this recipe good for budget friendly dinner recipes?
Yes, this Three Bean Vegetarian Chili is incredibly budget-friendly, relying on inexpensive pantry staples like canned beans and diced tomatoes.