Vegetarian Chili

American · Dinner · Easy

Vegetarian Chili

Total
55 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
4
Calories
390
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Roasted peppers and zucchini join kidney beans in a smoky tomato chili, served over warm brown rice.

Roasting the vegetables first gives vegetarian chili browned edges and a sweeter base before the beans and tomatoes go in. Cumin and smoked paprika build depth without needing a long stovetop simmer.

Use a wide baking dish so the vegetables roast rather than pile up and steam. Stir in cooked rice only at the table to keep the chili thick and the grains separate.

Method

  1. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss onion, red bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil in a 3-quart baking dish. Roast for until softened with brown edges.

  2. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, kidney beans, canned tomatoes and salt. Bake for until bubbling and thickened, stirring halfway.

  3. Warm cooked brown rice in a covered microwave-safe bowl for , stirring halfway, until steaming. Spoon into bowls and ladle the chili over it.

Forkue tips

  • For a milder chili, reduce the cayenne while keeping the cumin and smoked paprika.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate chili for up to 4 days and rice separately for up to 3 days. Reheat until steaming, adding water to the chili if it has thickened.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

390Calories
17gProtein
68gCarbs
6gFat

Vegetarian Chili: FAQ

Can I use black beans?

Yes. Black beans or a mix of black and kidney beans work in the same drained quantity.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat; cook or warm the rice separately.

How do I store and reheat Vegetarian Chili?

Refrigerate chili for up to 4 days and rice separately for up to 3 days. Reheat until steaming, adding water to the chili if it has thickened.

How long does Vegetarian Chili take?

About 55 min in total: 15 min prep and 40 min cooking.

What do I need to make Vegetarian Chili?

The key ingredients are onion, red bell pepper, zucchini, ground cumin, smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Vegetarian Chili?

For a milder chili, reduce the cayenne while keeping the cumin and smoked paprika.