Simple Vegan Chilli con carne Recipe (2024)

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By Samira @ Alphafoodie

published April 08, 2020

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updated July 14, 2021

4.97 from 55 votes

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This simple vegan chili con carne recipe uses a mixture of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, for a delicious meat-free hearty vegan chili.

I have recently turned back towards my pantry/store cupboard ingredients and a fresh produce delivery to help me create delicious and nutritious meals every week. This easy vegan chili con carne is a particular favorite of mine for its customizability and storage options.

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In fact, this vegan recipe has become one of my favorite options for chucking in a lot of veggies in a way that’s still really enjoyable for the whole family to eat, while remaining meat-free. Plus, with the addition of soy – you’re able to take advantage of the higher protein levels.

However, it’s also not 100% necessary if you have none to hand and can easily be swapped out with sweet potato chunks or even more beans, depending on what you have available (hence its nickname ”pantry chili”). Really, I honestly just love this recipe for how customizable it is to what ingredients you have at hand.

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As I said above, though, one of the best pros of this hearty vegan chili recipe is the storage options. Not only is this recipe amazing for meal prep and can be served alongside quinoa or rice throughout the week. It’s also easily portioned and frozen for up to three months! I always make a massive batch whenever I’m cooking so I know I have spares to hand – when needed.

Lastly, depending on if you’re using tinned beans or pre-soaking and cooking them yourself (which will take longer), this recipe can take just 25 minutes of prep and cooking – so great for a quick, nutritious option.

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Note, this recipe can serve up to 8 people. I like batch cooking this recipe because this is very freezer-friendly. So I separate it into portions and freeze it for up to 3 months.

The Chili Con Carne How-To

What’s needed

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  • soy mince or veggie mince
  • red kidney beans (check my blog for tips on how to prepare dried kidney beans)
  • bell peppers, carrots, celery
  • chopped tomatoes (from tin/can) or tomato passata, tomato purée
  • vegetable stock (I used homemade) or even red wine
  • olive oil,onions, garlic, paprika (or smoked paprika), fresh chili pepper, salt

Optional: Sweet potato or more beans. You can also mix quinoa directly into the mix if you want to omit the soy but still up the protein levels. This recipe is incredibly versatile.

Steps

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Start by prepping the veg and beans. Finely chop the veggies – carrots, celery, bell peppers, garlic, onion, and fresh chili pepper.

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If using tinned kidney beans, then you’ll want the beans rinsed and drained. Alternatively, you can pre-soak some dry beans (for at least 4 hours, or overnight). Then cook these separately, and these will be ready to go.

Heat the olive oil in a big saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and fry until soft.

Add the spices, soy mince, and tomato purée/ passata (tinned diced tomatoes also works). Cook for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Add the chopped tomatoes and the veggie stock. Stir well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, and bring to a boil.

When the mix starts bubbling, lower the heat and simmer for another 3-4 minutes.

Add the chopped peppers, celery, and carrots. Stir well and cook for a few minutes. Note: I add the veggies at this stage, as I like them a little more crunchy. If you prefer them much softer, then add them right after the onion and garlic.

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Finally, add the cooked red kidney beans.

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Mix well and simmer for a few further minutes, until the beans are thoroughly heated through.

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Your soy chili is then ready to serve immediately, or be portioned into meal-prep/ freezer-friendly containers.

If you’re storing some for later, just make sure that it has completely cooled down before moving to the fridge/freezer.

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Serve your chili con carne hot with sour cream (or vegan yogurt), fresh herbs, and lime. I like to pair mine with brown rice or quinoa, or even as a topping for a baked sweet potato.

You can also use the chili as tortilla filling and make delicious vegan burritos or serve with corn chips and dairy-free cheese for a nachos-style dish.

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Keep in the fridge for 4-5 days or the freezer for up to three months.

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Other Meat-Free Mains You Might Like:

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If meat-free mains are what you’re looking for then I have tons for you. For example, how about these or thisSuper Creamy Vegan Mushroom Sauce Pasta or even thisEasy Vegan Bechamel Pasta Bake.

I also have recipes forMeat-free Organic Rainbow Tacos: 4-ways,Sweet Potato Crust Rainbow Pizza, orHealthy Rainbow Zucchini Boats. Head over to the ‘Mains’ section of my recipes, to see the full list of options.

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If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in the comments. You can also tag me in your recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie.

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Simple Vegan Chilli con Carne Recipe

4.97 from 55 votes

By: Samira

This simple vegan chilli con Carne recipe uses a mixture of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, for a delicious meat-free hearty vegan chili. It's also perfect for meal-prep and is freezer friendly.

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 500 grams soy mince or any veggie mince
  • 500 grams red kidney beans or 2 tins/cans
  • 2 tins of chopped tomatoes or 750 ml passata
  • 500 ml vegetable stock check my blog
  • 3 bell peppers
  • 2 medium carrots
  • 2 celery stalks 2 medium onions
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste 5 tablespoons
  • 1 fresh chilli pepper
  • 2 tBsp olive oil
  • 1 tBsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Start by prepping the veg and beans. Finely chop the veggies - carrots, celery, bell peppers, garlic, onion and fresh chilli pepper.

  • If using tinned kidney beans then you'll want the beans rinsed and drained. Alternatively, you can pre-soak some dry beans ( for at-least 4 hours, or overnight). Then cook these separately and these will be ready to go.

  • Heat up the olive oil in a big saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and fry until they are soft.

    Note: If you prefer the veggies (peppers, celery, carrots) very soft, add them at this point. I prefer them more crunchy so I add them later on.

  • Add the spices, soy mince, and tomato purée/ passata ( tinned diced tomatoes also works). Cook for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

  • Add the chopped tomatoes and the veggie stock. Stir well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, and bring to a boil.

  • When the mix starts bubbling, lower the heat and simmer for another 3-4 minutes.

  • Add the chopped peppers, celery, and carrots. Stir well and cook for a few minutes.

    Note: I add the veggies at this stage, as I like them a little more crunchy. If you prefer them much softer, then add them right after the onion and garlic and skip this step.

  • Finally, add the cooked red kidney beans.Mix well and simmer for a few further minutes, until the beans are completely heated through.

  • Your soy chilli is then ready to serve immediately, or be portioned into meal-prep/ freezer-friendly containers.If you're storing some for later, just make sure that it has completely cooled down before moving to the fridge/freezer.

    Serve your chilli con Carne hot with sour cream ( or vegan yogurt), fresh herbs and lime. I like to pair mine with brown rice or quinoa, or even as a topping for a baked sweet potato.

    You can also use the chilli as tortilla filling and make delicious vegan burritos or serve with corn chips and dairy-free cheese for a nachos style dish.

    Keep in the fridge for 4-5 days or the freezer for up to three months.

Video

Notes

  • This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to swap out vegetables for what you have available, swap the soy mince for more beans, sweet potato or quinoa and more.
  • This can be meal-prepped and stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or freezer for 3 months.

Course: Main

Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl, Calories: 440kcal, Carbohydrates: 29g, Protein: 33g, Fat: 22g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 81mg, Sodium: 812mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 6g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Simple Vegan Chilli con carne Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What to add to chili instead of meat? ›

Here are just a few ideas.....
  1. An extra can of beans (pinto, kidney, or black)
  2. Seitan.
  3. Bulgur.
  4. Portobella Mushrooms.
  5. My Cauliflower Taco Crumbles.
  6. Butler Soy Curls.
  7. Any of the new burger crumble products in the store.
Jan 15, 2023

Should chili be thick or soupy? ›

Ideally, chili should simmer low and slow. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate and results in a thicker consistency and deeper, more complex flavor as the aromatics and spices release their superpowers.

What is a vegetarian substitute for ground beef in chili? ›

Meaty tofu crumbles – They are made easily and quickly in the oven while the rest of the chili comes together on the stovetop. Often I skip the tofu and use Beyond meat crumbles instead. You could also use TVP ground beef or another vegan beef substitute.

What is vegan chili made of? ›

This Vegan Chili is a moderately-spiced, tomato-y stew loaded with chunks of celery, onion, green bell pepper, and carrot. Spices like ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic, and cayenne pepper add some body to the chili, while kidney beans and pinto beans give a hearty and creamy texture.

What adds the most flavor to chili? ›

Cocoa powder, bacon, cinnamon, ground coffee and tomato paste will all add a rich sweet & salty flavors that are sure to surprise and delight. Warming spice blends, like Garam Masala, Ras el Hanout or Baharat are another simple and delicious way to add layered flavors to this simple one-pot meal.

When to add beans to chili? ›

You know the saying, “save the best for last?” To keep your beans nice and plump, add them about 20 minutes before you finish cooking. This will give them plenty of time to impart that perfectly seasoned chili flavor to your recipe without overcooking.

Does tomato paste make chili thicker? ›

Not only will tomato paste add a tangy flavor to the dish, but it will also act as a thickening agent. For this purpose, you can use homemade or store-bought tomato paste. Add 1 can of the paste to your pot of chili, stir the mixture, and let it cook on medium heat for about 30 minutes.

How to thicken vegan chili? ›

If you don't have masa harina on hand you can use flour, cornmeal, cornstarch, or puree a can of beans. Just start with a tablespoon of the flour, cornmeal, masa harina, or cornstarch whisked with a little water, add to your chili and simmer 10 more minutes or so.

What are the best beans for chili? ›

The best beans for chili are pinto, kidney, and black beans, like in this easy and tasty recipe. This 3-bean chili freezes great for meals later in the week. If you prefer thinner chili, add an extra can of tomato sauce. The green chiles are not hot and add a wonderful flavor, so don't be afraid to use them.

What is a good vegan substitute for beef? ›

Tofu can be used to make plant-based versions of anything from frittatas to crêpes to ricotta. It can be used to substitute chicken, beef, eggs, and more. Even if you do not like tofu seasoned and crisped up by itself, it can also be blended, roasted, and mashed beyond recognition into something genuinely delicious.

How long is vegan chili good in the fridge? ›

How to store and reheat vegetarian chili. In the refrigerator: this plant-based chili will stay good in your fridge for about 1 week. Once your chili is completely cooled, just place it in an airtight container (or multiple, if you'd like to meal prep it) without the additional toppings and place it in the fridge.

Can vegans eat rice? ›

Yes, absolutely! Rice is a common grain in all cooking and has a significant place in the plant-based world too. Some rice dishes may not be suitable for vegans though, so if you're eating out or following a recipe make sure there are no meat, fish or other animal products being used before you tuck in!

Is soy sauce vegan? ›

In theory, soy sauce is vegan, as it is only made up of soybeans, wheat, water and wheat which are all, of course, vegan-friendly. However, some manufacturers add ingredients that compromise soy sauce being vegan, using flavour enhancers which are derived from fish or meat.

Do you drain beans for chili? ›

Too much liquid will thin your chili

The same holds true for using canned beans in chili. According to Taste of Home, you should typically drain canned beans before adding them to your pot of chili. All that liquid can seriously water the chili down, diluting all its flavors.

What is the best substitute for meat? ›

Protein rich plant foods

Some whole foods, such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, and mushrooms, contain protein or have a meaty texture and can work well as meat substitutes. Food manufacturers often include these types of food in their vegetarian and vegan products.

What to add when chili is missing something? ›

Secret Ingredients

for a rich flavor, depth addition try espresso powder (finely ground coffee), cocoa powder, or cinnamon. Liquid Smoke is also a great flavor addition for some deep special flavor! many people will add a shot of bourbon, beer, sherry, or brandy for a smooth edge with a little kick in the bite.

What can I add to a can of chili to make it taste better? ›

“If there's one thing you have to do with any canned chili, it would be adding fresh chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños. Maybe even some pickled jalapeños.

Does chili have to have meat? ›

Today, Texans believe that chili should only have chili peppers, meat, and spices. However, many modern recipes also call for beans, veggies, and even noodles thrown in. At chili cook-offs across the US, you'll see recipes with all kinds of ground meat, including: Beef.

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