Description

This easy vegetarian chili recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish loaded with a vibrant blend of spices, hearty beans, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night or a family-friendly meal, it combines rich taste and satisfying texture using simple pantry staples and plant-based ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Base

1 medium onion, diced
2 bell peppers, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Proteins and Others

4 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped
Optional: 3 oz smoked turkey slices, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (canned)
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Spices and Flavorings

2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the onions, bell peppers, and garlic finely to create a flavorful base. Chop the smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices into bite-sized pieces to evenly release their smoky flavors.
Sauté the Base: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped smoked turkey bacon. Cook until slightly crisp and fragrant. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic to build a tasty foundation.
Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) into the pot, stirring well to coat the vegetables and smoked turkey bacon. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Incorporate Beans and Liquids: Fold in the drained and rinsed kidney and black beans. Add apple cider vinegar and the natural gelling agent to brighten and naturally thicken the chili. Stir gently and bring to a gentle simmer.
Simmer and Adjust: Cook the chili on low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Add the chopped smoked turkey slices near the end to warm them without drying out. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, spices, or acidity for perfect balance.

Notes

Use fresh chili powder and cumin for vibrant flavors.
A splash of apple cider vinegar balances richness and brightens the dish.
Simmer low and slow to deepen flavors and meld textures.
Prep vegetables and pre-cook smoked turkey bacon ahead to save time during the week.
Adjust thickness with water or more natural gelling agent as needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: vegetarian chili, smoky chili, plant-based chili, easy chili recipe, gluten free chili, cozy meals, weeknight dinner