Colorado's Ultimate Homemade Vegetarian Chili Recipe for Chilly Evenings

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of vegetarian chili to warm up on a crisp Colorado evening. This plant-based chili is packed with flavor, making it a favorite for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Whether you’re nestled in a mountain cabin or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this chili delivers a perfect combination of spices, vegetables, and beans. Plus, it’s easy to make, making it a go-to dish when you’re looking for comfort without the hassle. Let’s dive into the rich flavors of Colorado with this delicious and nourishing vegetarian chili recipe.

Photo byNick Davies

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz) of black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 cup frozen corn
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all the beans. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. In the final 5 minutes, stir in the frozen corn and let it heat through. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

This recipe can be easily adapted for the slow cooker or Instant Pot, and you can freeze leftovers for a quick and easy meal later. It’s also gluten-free and can be made vegan by skipping the cheese or opting for a vegan version.

Why You'll Love It:

This vegetarian chili has everything—protein-packed beans, robust veggies, and a blend of spices that create a flavor explosion. It’s perfect for a Colorado evening after a long day of hiking or skiing, giving you the warmth and nourishment you need.

Do you want a bit more heat? Try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Need something to pair it with? Cornbread or a baked potato on the side is an ideal choice to soak up every bit of the delicious chili.

Did you enjoy this Colorado-inspired vegetarian chili? Let us know in the comments! Be sure to follow for more delicious recipes that bring the taste of the Rockies to your kitchen.

Sources:

Best Vegetarian Chili – A Couple Cooks

Best Vegetarian Chili Recipe | The Clean Eating Couple

The Best Vegetarian Chili in the World Recipe (allrecipes.com)