Are you dreaming of a hearty, flavour-packed vegetarian meal that requires minimal effort? Then look no further! This slow cooker vegetarian chilli, inspired by the simplicity and deliciousness of Jamie Oliver's cooking style, is the perfect answer. It's a fantastic recipe for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, promising a delicious and warming experience. Let's dive into this simple yet flavourful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green 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 corn, drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers; cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Slow cook to perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes!
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Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. This healthy meal is perfect served with crusty bread or rice.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. These can be added directly to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.
- Make it heartier: Include 1 cup of cooked brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
- Customize your beans: Use any combination of beans you prefer. Pinto beans, chickpeas, or even lentils would work well.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This slow cooker vegetarian chili is a delicious and easy recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. It's a fantastic example of how simple, homemade cooking can create truly delicious dishes. Enjoy!