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Easy Weeknight Vegan Black Bean Chili

Close-up of a steaming bowl of rich, dark black bean chili with visible tomatoes, served on a wooden surface.
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Make this hearty, thick, and flavorful vegan black bean chili. It uses simple pantry staples and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red 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)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, undrained (for thickness)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, rinsed black beans, undrained black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to deepen.
  5. Stir in the corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking, if using.
  6. Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For a thicker chili, mash about 1/4 cup of the beans against the side of the pot.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a smoky black bean chili flavor, increase the smoked paprika to 1 teaspoon.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.
  • If you prefer a spicier chili, add one diced jalapeño with the onions and peppers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/easy-black-bean-chili-recipe/