Vegetarian Chili

How to Make Vegetarian Chili

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1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy pot over medium heat, add the onion, both peppers, the carrots and celery, and cook for 8 minutes, until softened.

   Mark done Start 8 min timer

2. Stir in the garlic, jalapeño, chilli powder, cumin, paprika and oregano and cook for 2 minutes, until fragrant.

   Mark done Start 2 min timer

3. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the tomatoes and stock.

   Mark done Start 1 min timer

4. Add the three kinds of beans, the cocoa powder and the salt and bring to a simmer.

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5. Cook, uncovered, over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring now and then, until the chili is thick and the flavours have come together.

   Mark done Start 30 min timer

6. Stir in the sweetcorn and cook for 5 minutes more, then stir in the lime juice and taste for salt.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

7. Serve in bowls topped with sliced avocado and coriander.

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Tips for Making Vegetarian Chili

• Toast the spices in the pot before adding any liquid. A minute in hot oil takes away their raw, dusty taste and brings out their flavour.
• Use three kinds of beans. They differ in texture, and the mixture gives a chili with more interest than a single bean.
• Give it time. The simmer thickens the sauce and blends the flavours, and the chili tastes even better on the second day.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• Lemon is the everyday swap for lime in this kind of dish — the acidity plays the same role even though the flavour is not identical.
• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.
• Fresh herbs work in place of the dried oregano at roughly three times the quantity — a teaspoon of dried is about a tablespoon of fresh, chopped.

What to Serve with Vegetarian Chili

• Cornbread
• Steamed rice
• Sliced avocado

Storing & Reheating Vegetarian Chili

Keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days and improves on the second. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the hob with a splash of water.

Vegetarian Chili FAQ: Common Questions

Vegetarian Chili Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.