Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and good for you? Look no further! This Gold Star Vegetarian Chili is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Packed with vibrant vegetables, beans, and warming spices, this chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, earning its name through its exceptional taste and ease of preparation. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meals you can make quickly, proving that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe provides a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy schedules, while still delivering on delicious dishes. Ready to unlock the secret to this award-winning chili? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
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Build the Flavor Base: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and oregano to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This step significantly enhances the overall flavor of your chili.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become. This slow cooking process is key to achieving that deep, satisfying taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Tips for Chili Success:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference. For a milder chili, omit it entirely.
- Bean Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. Cannellini beans or chickpeas would also be delicious additions.
- Add Some Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it Hearty: For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before simmering.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Southwest Chili: Add a diced jalapeño pepper, a handful of corn kernels, and a squeeze of lime juice for a Southwestern twist.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chipotle powder for a spicier chili.
- Vegetarian Chili with Meat Substitutes: Crumble some vegetarian sausage or add some cooked lentils for added protein and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 15-20g
This Gold Star Vegetarian Chili recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a comforting, satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite, and a testament to the delicious dishes you can create with simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!