FILLING and HEARTY Vegan Chili

FILLING and HEARTY Vegan Chili is a easy American (Tex-Mex) recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Chili Pepper Madness on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 55 min

Cost: $7.80 total, $1.95 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 large Onion (peeled and diced)
  • 2 Bell Peppers (any colors, seeded and diced)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (store‑bought)
  • 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers (drained and chopped (jarred))
  • 2 cans Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz each, undrained)
  • 1 can Kidney Beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can Black Beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce (adjust to desired heat)
  • 2 cups Vegetable Broth (low‑sodium)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Vegetables

    Dice the onion and bell peppers; mince the garlic.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Sauté Aromatics

    Heat the skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, then sauté onion, peppers, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste

    Stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium

  4. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

    Add roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes (with juice), drained beans, hot sauce, and vegetable broth. Mix well.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Bring to a Boil

    Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: High

  6. Simmer and Develop Flavor

    Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: Low

  7. Finish and Serve

    Turn off the heat, let the chili rest for 2 minutes, then ladle into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
4 g
Fiber
10 g

Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free (ensure broth is gluten‑free), Dairy‑Free

Allergens: None (legume allergy may apply to beans)

Last updated: April 19, 2026

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FILLING and HEARTY Vegan Chili

Recipe by Chili Pepper Madness

A robust, plant‑based chili packed with onions, bell peppers, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of warming spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this vegan chili is easy to make in one pan and can be customized with your favorite hot sauce.

EasyAmerican (Tex-Mex)Serves 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
35m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
55m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.80
Total cost
$1.95
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Sauté the onion, peppers, and garlic until softened but not browned.
  • Bloom the spices with tomato paste for at least 2 minutes.
  • Simmer the chili uncovered enough to allow thickening and flavor development.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and pan with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Use a sturdy cutting board to prevent slips while chopping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of vegan chili in American Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

Chili originated in the American Southwest as a meat‑based stew, but the vegan version reflects modern plant‑based adaptations while keeping the bold, spicy profile that defines Tex‑Mex comfort food.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of chili in the United States and how does this vegan version compare?

A

Traditional Texas chili often omits beans and focuses on beef, while Cincinnati chili adds cinnamon and allspice. This vegan chili follows the bean‑heavy, spice‑rich style common in the Pacific Northwest and modern health‑focused adaptations.

cultural
Q

How is hearty vegan chili traditionally served in American households?

A

It is usually served hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese (or vegan cheese), chopped onions, cilantro, or avocado, and accompanied by cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

cultural
Q

During which occasions or celebrations is chili commonly prepared in American culture?

A

Chili is a staple for game‑day gatherings, backyard barbecues, pot‑luck parties, and casual family dinners, especially during colder months.

cultural
Q

What other Tex‑Mex dishes pair well with hearty vegan chili?

A

Serve alongside guacamole, fresh salsa, corn tortillas, Mexican rice, or a simple side of grilled corn on the cob for a complete Tex‑Mex meal.

cultural
Q

What makes this hearty vegan chili special in the context of plant‑based American cooking?

A

It combines a classic chili spice blend with a variety of beans and roasted red peppers, delivering protein, fiber, and bold flavor without any animal products, showcasing how comfort food can be fully vegan.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making hearty vegan chili?

A

Over‑cooking the aromatics until they burn, not blooming the spices, and simmering for too short a time are typical errors that can lead to flat flavor or a gritty texture.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe add tomato paste after sautéing the vegetables instead of at the beginning?

A

Adding tomato paste after the aromatics allows the paste to caramelize slightly, deepening the umami without scorching, which enhances the overall richness of the chili.

technical
Q

Can I make this hearty vegan chili ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the chili can be prepared up to the simmering stage, cooled, and refrigerated for 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Chili Pepper Madness specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Chili Pepper Madness focuses on bold, spicy recipes ranging from classic comfort foods to adventurous plant‑based dishes, often highlighting heat level adjustments and flavor layering.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Chili Pepper Madness' approach to vegan cooking differ from other vegan channels?

A

Chili Pepper Madness emphasizes high‑heat techniques, extensive spice use, and hearty, satisfying meals that appeal to both vegans and meat‑eaters, whereas many vegan channels prioritize light or raw preparations.

channel

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