VEGETARIAN CHILI

 

A substantial, healthy, and tasty dish packed with nutritious components including veggies, legumes, and the ideal flavor blend.

 

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 tablespoons ground chili powder

1/2 tablespoon dried  oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon: dried basil, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, paprika

1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper

1/2 tablespoon white sugar

2 cans  fire-roasted diced tomatoes

2 cans 14.5 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can 14.5 ounces pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 can 4 ounces fire-roasted diced green chilies, optional

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup vegetable stock  

1 bay leaf

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Toppings: of your choice

 

Over medium heat, heat a big heavy-bottomed pot. Add in the olive oil and cook for approximately 20 seconds, or until it shimmers. Stir in the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes. Cook, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft, approximately 6-9 minutes.

Whilst vegetables are softening, mince the garlic and combine all of the spices in a small bowl: chili powder, oregano, cumin, dried basil, salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, pepper, and sugar. Mix everything together and put aside until the onion and pepper are soft.

 

Combine the garlic and all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Cook, stirring regularly, for 45 seconds to 1 minute, or until the spices and garlic are aromatic.

Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes with care. Combine the drained and washed black beans, drained and rinsed pinto beans, chilies, frozen corn, and vegetable stock in a mixing bowl. Combine the bay leaf and the olive oil in a mixing bowl.

 

To blend everything, stir everything together. Reduce the heat as required to maintain a slow simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring periodically.

1 1/2 cups of chili should be transferred to a blender. To avoid splatter, remove the centerpiece from your blender lid and place a dish towel over the top. Assemble the lid tightly and mix while holding the towel. Add this smooth mixture back into your chili. To blend, stir everything together.

If desired, garnish with fresh lime and cilantro. Season with pepper to taste. Individual bowls should be garnished with everyone's preferred toppings.