This hearty, flavorful plant-based (vegan) chili has been a staple in our home for years — a recipe I’ve tweaked and adapted over time. It’s incredibly versatile, so feel free to use whatever ingredients you have on hand and let the flavor profile be your guide. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!
Chilly Outside? Chili Inside!
A hearty, smoky, and slightly sweet plant-based chili that's perfect forcozy nights or crowd-pleasing meals!
Ingredients
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2+ cloves garlic, chopped or minced
- 1 can each black beans, kidney beans, Great Northern beans— rinsed and drained (Feel free to substitute with whatever beans you have or your family prefers)
- 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 large fire-roasted red pepper or several small fresh sweet peppers, chopped
- 8 oz. mushrooms of choice, cleaned and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups frozen sweet corn
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chipotle powder or chili powder
- 2 Tbsp molasses
- 2 Tbsp sweetener (date syrup, maple syrup, coconutsugar, etc.)
- 1-2 tsp dry ground mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Mexican oregano (or regular oregano, if preferred)
- 2 Tbsp vinegar (red wine, balsamic, or apple cider)
- 1 small jar your favorite salsa
- optional: small handful of cacao nibs (adds a rich, earthy depth)
- optional: a few softened goji berries (soak in warm water first for a hint of sweetness)
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, sauté the onion, mushrooms, peppers, and garlic in a bit of the veggie broth until softened.
- Add the remaining broth and all other ingredients to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until heated through and flavors have melded (about 30 minutes or longer).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Top with your favorites, such as:
- 🥑 Chopped avocado
- 🌿 Green onions or scallions
- 🫙 Soy yogurt (a great sour cream substitute)
- 🌽 Crushed tortilla chips for crunch
Notes
Tip: This chili tastes even better the next day — perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!