Smoky Three-Bean Vegetarian Chilli

Deep, smoky and properly hearty — a big pot of chilli that feeds a crowd and tastes even better tomorrow.

Vegetarian Vegan Gluten-free (165 ratings)
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Total1 hr
Serves6
DifficultyEasy
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A good chilli needs layers: sweet onions and peppers, toasted spices, a hit of smoke from chipotle or smoked paprika, and a secret spoon of cocoa for depth. Three kinds of beans give bite and protein, and a handful of walnuts adds that 'mince' texture people miss.

Method

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the onions, peppers and carrot with a pinch of salt for 10 minutes until soft.
  2. Add the garlic, chilli powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cocoa and chipotle. Stir for 1 minute, then add the tomato purée and cook 1 minute more.
  3. Add the tomatoes, all the beans, walnuts and stock. Bring to a simmer, then cook uncovered over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.
  4. Stir in the lime juice, taste and season generously. Serve with your favourite toppings.

💡 VeggieTip notes

  • It's better the next day. Make it ahead if you can.
  • For 'meaty' texture, add 100 g cooked green lentils or a pack of plant mince with the beans.
  • Leftovers: chilli-loaded jacket potatoes, nachos, or a burrito filling.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

380kcal
17g protein
46g carbs
15g fat
16g fibre

Values are estimates and will vary with brands and portion sizes.

Tags: chilli beans batch cooking freezer-friendly crowd pleaser spicy