Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl
Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
A hearty and flavorful Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl that's packed with nutritious ingredients and perfect for a cozy meal.
This Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is a comforting dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Made with a variety of colorful vegetables and protein-rich beans, this chili is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal
- A great source of plant-based protein and fiber
- Perfect for meal prepping and easy to customize
- Spicy, savory, and satisfying – a true crowd-pleaser
A Nutrient-Packed Delight
This Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is more than just a comforting dish; it's a powerhouse of nutrients. Bursting with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, it offers a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet. The inclusion of kidney and black beans not only enhances the texture but also provides a significant boost of plant-based protein and fiber, making this chili a satisfying meal that keeps you full longer.
By incorporating diverse vegetables, this recipe allows you to sneak in a serving of greens and vibrant colors into your diet. Whether you're looking to increase your vegetable intake or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, this chili bowl is the perfect solution. It’s an ideal recipe for families, ensuring everyone gets their fill of wholesome goodness in one hearty bowl.
Versatile and Easy to Customize
One of the best aspects of this Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is its adaptability. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or legumes based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Want to add corn for sweetness or some spinach for an extra health kick? Go for it! This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen and is a great way to use up leftover produce.
Additionally, if you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to adjust the spices or omit the chili powder. On the other hand, spice enthusiasts can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an added kick. This customization makes it an excellent dish for a variety of palates, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a bowl tailored to their taste.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This chili is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze individual portions for quick meals later on. This makes it an excellent option for busy weekdays when you need a nutritious meal ready to go without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Simply reheat the chili on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to eat. Pair it with some rice, quinoa, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. Having this chili on hand will not only save you time but also help you stick to a healthy eating plan, making it a win-win!
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Enjoy your bowl of hearty Vegetable and Bean Chili!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Garnish
Once the chili is thickened and flavors meld, serve hot in bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
This chili is perfect served with crusty bread or over rice!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any additional vegetables you have on hand, such as corn or spinach, for extra nutrition.
Tips for the Perfect Chili
To elevate your Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that complements the spices beautifully. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like oregano or thyme can introduce new layers of flavor, making each bowl unique.
If you're looking to add more depth, try incorporating a tablespoon of cocoa powder or dark chocolate into the mix. This might sound unusual, but it adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall taste of the chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors. Avocado slices or guacamole can also add a delicious creaminess and healthy fats that complement the dish perfectly.
For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some tortilla chips or crispy fried onions on top. This adds texture and makes your chili bowl even more appealing, turning a simple meal into a delightful experience.
Storage Tips
When storing leftover chili, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help preserve the flavors and prevent any moisture buildup that could affect the texture. Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
If you plan to freeze your chili, consider portioning it into smaller containers or freezer bags. This allows for easy reheating and prevents waste, ensuring you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is completely vegan and made with plant-based ingredients.
→ Can I freeze the chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ How can I make it spicier?
To add more heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.
Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl
A hearty and flavorful Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl that's packed with nutritious ingredients and perfect for a cozy meal.
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Nutritious & Fresh Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chili Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the chili is thickened and flavors meld, serve hot in bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any additional vegetables you have on hand, such as corn or spinach, for extra nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 15g