There’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty chili—especially when it's made with nourishing, plant-based ingredients. Whether you're new to vegan cooking or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this easy vegan chili recipe delivers bold flavor, comforting texture, and wholesome nutrition.
Best of all? It's completely customizable and comes together with affordable pantry staples. Perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or cozy nights in, this one-pot vegan chili will become a staple in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into the ultimate vegan chili recipe that’s both easy to make and satisfying enough for everyone at the table.
Why Make Vegan Chili?
Before we jump into the ingredients and steps, let’s quickly talk about why vegan chili is such a great addition to your plant-based routine.
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High in plant protein: Thanks to beans, lentils, and sometimes tofu or tempeh, this chili packs a protein punch without animal products.
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Fiber-rich: Legumes and vegetables bring gut-healthy fiber to keep you full and energized.
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Budget-friendly: You don’t need expensive ingredients to make a delicious pot of chili.
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Meal-prep ready: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for future meals.
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Versatile: Add what you love—peppers, corn, sweet potatoes, quinoa, or even cocoa powder for depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This vegan chili recipe is designed for simplicity and flavor. All the ingredients are easy to find and likely already in your kitchen.
Base Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil (or use water for oil-free cooking)
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1 yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, diced
Core Components:
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 cup vegetable broth (add more for thinner chili)
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1 cup frozen or fresh corn (optional)
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1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
Seasonings:
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 tablespoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon oregano
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra depth)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Vegan Chili
This easy vegan chili recipe is perfect for beginners and comes together in just a few steps.
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, and tomato paste. Let the spices toast for about 1 minute to release their aromas.
Step 4: Add Beans, Lentils, and Tomatoes
Pour in the black beans, kidney beans, cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the chili to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Corn and Adjust
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the corn. Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spice level as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite vegan toppings like:
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Sliced avocado
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Chopped cilantro
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Vegan sour cream
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Green onions
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Crushed tortilla chips
Tips for Perfect Vegan Chili
1. Cook Ahead for Better Flavor
Like most stews, chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
2. Don’t Rush the Simmer
Letting your chili simmer helps break down the vegetables and intensify the spices. Low and slow wins.
3. Make It Spicy or Mild
Control the heat by adjusting cayenne or adding hot sauce at the end.
4. Add Texture with Quinoa or Tofu
Want more texture? Add cooked quinoa, chopped mushrooms, or crumbled tofu for variety.
5. Go Oil-Free
If you're avoiding added oils, simply sauté your aromatics in water or vegetable broth.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Chili
One bowl of this hearty vegan chili offers:
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High protein from lentils and beans
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Plenty of fiber for digestion
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Rich in vitamins A and C from bell peppers and tomatoes
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Iron and magnesium from legumes
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Low saturated fat, cholesterol-free
It’s a nutrient-dense meal that supports energy, heart health, and digestion—all while being 100% plant-based.
Make It Your Own: Variations
Vegan chili is highly adaptable. Here are some easy variations based on your preferences:
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Add 1 peeled, diced sweet potato in Step 2. Pairs great with chipotle spices.
Three-Bean Chili
Add a third bean type like pinto or white beans.
High-Protein Chili
Stir in crumbled tempeh, soy curls, or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Chunky Veggie Chili
Include zucchini, squash, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables.
How to Store and Reheat
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Refrigerate: Let chili cool and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freeze: This chili freezes beautifully. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen.
This makes it an ideal recipe for batch cooking or easy lunches throughout the week.
What to Serve with Vegan Chili
While chili is a complete meal on its own, it also pairs well with:
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Cornbread (vegan versions are easy to make)
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Brown rice or quinoa
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Tortilla chips or crackers
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A fresh side salad with lime vinaigrette
Why This Recipe Matters
Eating vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or flavor. This simple vegan chili recipe proves that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying as traditional ones—without the cholesterol, saturated fat, or environmental impact of meat-heavy dishes.
It’s a small shift that aligns with a compassionate and eco-conscious lifestyle, especially when paired with conscious consumer choices.
If you're passionate about plant-based living, consider expressing your values in every part of your life—from the food on your plate to the clothes you wear.
At The Dharma Store, you’ll find vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. These designs aren’t just stylish—they’re a statement. Wear your message proudly and help spread awareness about veganism with every step you take.
Final Thoughts
This easy vegan chili recipe is warm, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for beginners and seasoned plant-based cooks alike. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing meal that aligns with your values and satisfies your appetite.
Whether you’re making dinner for the family, prepping meals for the week, or just looking to eat healthier, this chili checks every box: easy, nutritious, affordable, and 100% vegan.
For more vegan living inspiration—including cruelty-free fashion made from organic cotton—visit The Dharma Store and discover a lifestyle brand that shares your commitment to kindness and sustainability.