Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe

Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this flavorful and hearty Three Bean Chili recipe. Packed with a trio of beans, fresh veggies, and a unique twist of dark cocoa, this meatless dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, even for the most devout meat lovers. The blend of spices and the addition of chipotle paste give it a perfect smoky kick, making each bite a comforting experience.

This easy-to-make chili is not just a one-time wonder; it gets even better with time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. The convenience of pantry staples and the nutritional powerhouse of beans make it a go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners or cozy lunches. Whether you enjoy it with a side of cornbread or topped with creamy avocado, this Three Bean Chili is a versatile dish that satisfies your cravings for healthy comfort food. So, grab a bowl, cozy up, and savor the delicious flavors of this plant-based delight.

Quick Benefits

• Packed with Protein: Three different types of beans offer a hearty plant-based protein source.
• Nutrient-Dense: Loaded with vegetables, spices, and beans for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
• Versatile and Convenient: Perfect for meal prep, tastes even better the next day, and can be frozen for up to three months.
• Unique Flavor Profile: Dark cocoa adds depth and richness while chipotle paste provides a smoky kick.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe Recipe

• The combination of three different types of beans creates a hearty and satisfying texture that will leave you feeling full and nourished.
• The addition of dark cocoa may sound unusual, but it adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
• Using chipotle paste instead of powder gives the chili a perfect smoky flavor that complements the beans and vegetables beautifully.
• This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want a quick and nutritious meal.
• The versatility of this chili allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or vegan cheese, making each bowl a unique and delicious experience.

Ingredients for Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe

• 1 tablespoon dark cocoa.
• 1 teaspoon chipotle paste.
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans.
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced.
• 2-3 celery stalks, diced.
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil.
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans.
• 1/2 jalapeño, chopped.
• 1 can (14 oz) pinto beans.
• 1 teaspoon sugar.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced.
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped.
• 1 teaspoon oregano.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder.
• 2 cans (14 oz) crushed tomatoes.
• 1 cup vegetable stock.

Pro Tips for Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe

To make the most out of this hearty three bean chili, ensure you cut all your vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. Remember to keep stirring while it simmers to prevent any sticking and to enhance the flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust the seasonings gradually to achieve the perfect balance.

For a satisfying meal, pair your chili with a side of tortilla chips or cornbread. Enhance the flavors by topping your chili with fresh cilantro, creamy avocado, or any of your favorite vegan garnishes. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep and quick, cozy meals.

Experiment by adding more jalapeño, chipotle paste, or cayenne pepper to adjust the heat level to your preference. If you don’t have chipotle paste, feel free to substitute it with smoked paprika or chipotle powder for that delicious smoky flavor. Lastly, the dark cocoa powder adds a unique richness and depth to the chili without overpowering it with a chocolate taste.

How to Make Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Warm oil in a large pot.

Step 2: Step 02

Sauté onion, celery, and red bell pepper over medium heat for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Step 03

Cook garlic and jalapeño for 1 minute.

Step 4: Step 04

Sprinkle in chili powder, oregano, and chipotle paste, sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Step 05

Combine black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock.

Step 6: Step 06

Combine dark cocoa and sugar.

Step 7: Step 07

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes.

Step 8: Step 08

Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Storage Tips

After preparing this three bean chili, ensure any leftovers are stored properly to maintain their delicious flavors. You can store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the texture of the beans and vegetables.

If you’d like to save some of the chili for later enjoyment, consider freezing it. Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and cozy meal whenever the craving strikes.

To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider adding extra jalapeño, chipotle paste, or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. You can also swap chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a different smoky flavor profile. The dark cocoa powder in this recipe adds richness and depth without making the chili taste like chocolate, contributing to its unique and flavorful taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have avocado oil, you can easily substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing the vegetables in this chili recipe. The flavor profile may change slightly, but the overall dish will still be delicious.

If you’re out of jalapeños or prefer a milder heat level, you can substitute the jalapeño with a green bell pepper or omit it altogether. Adjust the amount of chili powder and chipotle paste to your preference to still achieve a flavorful and aromatic chili without the extra heat.

For a gluten-free option, ensure that the vegetable stock you use is gluten-free certified. You can also substitute the vegetable stock with water or gluten-free vegetable broth to make this chili suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious three-bean chili topped with a dollop of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and creamy richness. Pair it with a side of warm cornbread to soak up all the flavorful sauce and create the perfect comforting meal. For a fun twist, try serving the chili in a bread bowl for a cozy and hearty dining experience that will please everyone at the table.

FAQs for Hearty Three Bean Chili Recipe

Can I skip the dark cocoa in the chili?

Dark cocoa adds richness and depth to the flavor without making it taste like chocolate. If you prefer, you can omit it, but it will alter the complexity of the dish.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned ones in this recipe?

Yes, you can use dried beans, but they need to be cooked separately first before adding them to the chili. Canned beans are used in this recipe for convenience and to save time.

How long can I store this three bean chili?

The chili will stay delicious in the fridge for around 4-5 days or up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

If I want a spicier chili, how can I adjust the heat level?

To make the chili spicier, you can add more jalapeño, chipotle paste, or even include some cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

As you savor every spoonful of this hearty Three Bean Chili, remember that cooking is all about making it your own. Feel free to experiment with different spices, veggies, or toppings to create a version that suits your taste buds perfectly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and adaptability, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or whipping up a quick dinner on a chilly evening, this Three Bean Chili is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its wholesome ingredients and robust flavors make it a comforting and nutritious choice for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, set a pot on the stove, and let the aroma of simmering chili fill your kitchen with warmth and delicious anticipation. Enjoy the process of creating this satisfying meal, and relish every bite of this flavorful Three Bean Chili.