Wrap up your day with a comforting and budget-friendly choice – a warm bowl of Vegetarian Chili. Filled with hearty kidney beans, flavorful tomatoes, and the aromatic blend of onions and chili seasoning, this chili not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nourishing and comforting conclusion to your evening. Join us in exploring a simple yet hearty recipe that turns humble ingredients into a bowl of warmth and goodness.
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Recipe: Vegetarian Chili
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) chili seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the drained kidney beans. Stir to combine the ingredients.
- Season the Chili:
- Sprinkle the chili seasoning mix, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Pour in Vegetable Broth:
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the chili to a simmer.
- Simmer and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Corn:
- Add the corn kernels to the chili during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring gently.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili seasoning according to your preference.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the warm Vegetarian Chili into bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions if desired.
Vegetarian Chili is not just a dinner option; it’s comfort in a bowl that combines the heartiness of kidney beans, the robust flavor of tomatoes, and the aromatic touch of onions and spices. This budget-friendly recipe is a simple yet hearty creation that transforms basic ingredients into a comforting and satisfying conclusion to your evening. So, savor the warmth, relish the heartiness, and embrace the comfort that each spoonful brings. It’s a delicious and straightforward dish that adds a touch of budget-friendly joy to your dinner routine.

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