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Hearty, Easy Vegan Black Bean Chili

A close-up of a hearty bowl of rich black bean chili topped with fresh avocado slices and chopped cilantro.

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Make this hearty, easy vegan black bean chili for a comforting, protein-packed meal. It uses simple ingredients and is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Optional toppings: avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, vegan sour cream

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Stir in the rinsed black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the chili cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  5. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Serve your hearty black bean chili hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges. This recipe is great for meal prep.

Notes

  • For a smoky black bean chili flavor, increase the smoked paprika to 1 teaspoon.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili recipe, mash about 1/2 cup of the beans against the side of the pot before simmering.
  • This vegan chili freezes well for future weeknight dinners.

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