Best Damn Vegan Chili

🌶️ Best Damn Vegan Chili

Serves: 6–8

Prep time: 15 min | Cook time: 45 min

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 7–8 minutes.
2. Stir in zucchini and cook 3–4 minutes more.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, vegetable broth, and all the spices. Stir well.
4. Bring chili to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more chili powder or cayenne if you want more heat.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, vegan sour cream, or tortilla chips.