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Easy Weeknight Vegan Black Bean Chili

A spoonful of thick, rich black bean chili being lifted from a white bowl, showing chunks of tomato and beans.

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Make this hearty, protein-packed black bean chili for a simple, flavorful vegan dinner. It is quick enough for a weeknight meal and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, undrained
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

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 to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper, if using. Cook the spices for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Add the rinsed black beans, undrained black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together well.
  5. Bring the chili 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 combine.
  6. Taste the chili and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a thicker chili recipe, remove about 1 cup of the chili mixture after 20 minutes of simmering, mash it slightly with a fork, and return it to the pot.
  • This recipe freezes well for future freezer meal chili needs. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
  • Serve with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of vegan sour cream for added flavor.

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