Vegetarian Chili ๐ถ๏ธ
Prepare yourself for a delicious, hearty, and healthy vegetarian chili that’s not only easy on the wallet but also a breeze to make! This recipe, passed down from a college professor, is perfect for those cool weather nights when you’re craving something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. Packed with beans, vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s a one-dish meal that will leave you satisfied and nourished. Let’s dive into this flavorful creation!
Recipe Details:
- Name: Vegetarian Chili
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per Serving: 178.8
- Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Beans, Vegetable, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/2 cups | Kidney beans |
| 1 cup | Bulgur |
| 1 can (about 16 oz) | Tomato juice |
| 4 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 1 | Onion, chopped |
| 1 stalk | Celery, chopped |
| 1 | Carrot, diced |
| 1 | Green pepper, diced |
| 2 cups | Chopped tomatoes |
| 1/2 tsp | Ground cumin |
| 1 tsp | Basil |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 tsp | Pepper |
| 1/4 cup | Tomato paste |
| 3/4 cup | Red wine |
| Pinch | Cayenne pepper |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bulgur:
- In a saucepan, heat the tomato juice until it boils.
- Add the bulgur, cover the saucepan, and let it stand for 15 minutes to allow the bulgur to absorb the liquid.
-
-
Sautรฉ the Aromatics:
- In a large pan, spray with non-stick cooking spray (like Pam).
- Sautรฉ the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add in the diced carrots, celery, and green pepper.
- Stir in the ground cumin, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
-
Bring it Together:
- To the pan, add the kidney beans and chopped tomatoes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and red wine.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Mix all the ingredients well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Simmer and Serve:
- Gently heat the chili mixture for at least 45 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
- Once ready, ladle the vegetarian chili into bowls.
- Serve it piping hot, optionally topped with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Recipe Notes:
- This vegetarian chili is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to your liking.
- For a heartier version, you can add more beans such as black beans or pinto beans.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve this chili with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
So there you have it! A budget-friendly, easy-to-make, and nutritious vegetarian chili recipe that’s perfect for those cozy nights in. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this hearty dish, packed with protein, fiber, and all the flavors you crave. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation! ๐ฒโจ
