8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (2024)

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ByTerri Edwards

This post may contain affiliate links.Read my full disclosure here.

The mark of a good veggie chili is that people don’t even notice that there’s no meat. These 8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes are just that good. Chock full of veggies, beans, and spices, these recipes are going to rock your plate…or bowl!

If you’ve been hankering for some deliciously healthy vegan chili, these meatless wonders will make you do a happy dance. Some can even be made in a crockpot or slow cooker.

What is vegan chili made of?

There are so many great vegan chili recipes to choose from and most of them have similar ingredients.

  • Beans- We always use beans in our veggie chili recipes to help bulk them up.
  • Veggies- Often time ingredients include onion, garlic, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and corn.
  • Chiles- For those that like a little spice, chiles are a great option.
  • Tomatoes- Whether it’s fresh tomatoes or canned, nearly all chili recipes include tomatoes.
  • Grain- All of my recipes include bulgur that mimics a ground beef texture. Other gluten-free options are buckwheat groats or brown rice.
  • Chili Powder- A seasoning that is a must in any good chili recipe to add lots of delicious flavor.
  • Spices- Other spices can include season salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  • Salsa- It’s a great way to add even more flavor.

Topping ideas

Vegan chili is delicious as is, but these great toppings add even more texture and flavor.

  • Vegan Sour Cream
  • Salsa
  • Lime slices
  • Chives
  • Vegan Cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced avocado
  • Guacamole

What pairs well with veggie chili?

  • Cornbread
  • Baked Tortilla Chips
  • Crusty bread like sourdough
  • Garden salad
  • Corn on the cob

This post may contain affiliate links.Read my full disclosure here.

Pro tips & substitutions

  • Feeding crowds- Chili is a great option for feeding large groups of people because it’s easy to make and inexpensive.
  • Cooking options- Make on the stovetop, in your Instant Pot, or Crock Pot.
  • Storing- Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
  • Freezing- Chili freezes well for up to 3-4 months.
  • Substitutions- Beans are a great substitute for ground beef. Bulgur or another grain also help to mimic a beef texture.

Also, be sure to check out our Vegan Chili page for more great recipes!

For those of you new to the whole food plant-based lifestyle, we’ve created a FREE 7-Day Plant-Based Menu Planner to help you get started!

Meatless Vegan Chili Recipes

Ever wondered how to make good old-fashioned chili in a heart-smart healthy way? Get those bowls and spoons ready, and we'll show you! Click on each of the photos, recipe titles, or 'Get the Recipe' buttons to see full recipes with ingredients, measurements, instructions, and a print button.

There is nothing better to warm you up on a cold day than a big bowl of hearty chili, and it’s even better when it can be ready and on the table in minutes without any fuss in the kitchen. This Instant Pot Vegan Chili is easy to make and chock full of healthy wholesome ingredients.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (6)

Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes Yield 6 servings

Crock Pot Vegan Chili

Sometime back, I experimented with a new recipe for vegetarian chili in my crockpot. Turned out amazing! A follower even won a cookoff with this delicious 3 bean vegan chili!

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (7)

Total Time 30 minutes Yield 8 servings

One-Pot Mac Chili

Easy homemade vegan mac chili is made with wholesome ingredients like beans, whole grain pasta, and lots of veggies with warm spices. It simple to make and can be on the table in about 30 minutes.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (8)

Total Time 10 minutes Yield 4 servings

Yes-You-Can Black Bean Chili

No meat? No problem! This vegan black bean chili recipe has all the taste of a hearty chili and can be ready to eat in 15-minutes or less. The convenience of a three-ingredient dish without any greasy pans to clean.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (9)

Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes Yield 4 servings

Chili Cheese Fries

Vegan Chili Cheese Fries are plant-strongly amazing! Crispy oil-free fries, topped with layers of tangy spicy chili and creamy vegan cheese sauce. The ultimate heart-healthy comfort food!

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (10)

Total Time 55 minutes Yield 4 servings

White Bean Chili

This White Bean Chili satisfies craving for chili, but cuts out all of the unhealthy ingredients found in many other chili recipes. Loaded with chunks of sweet potatoes, tender white beans, celery, onions, and spices, this dish is sure to keep you full for hours.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (11)

Total Time 30 minutes Yield 6 servings

Vegan Chili Recipe for Burgers

If you love carrot/veggie dogs and burgers but miss topping them with chili, I think you're about to do a happy-dance! This quick Chili Vegan Recipe is simmered with spices and onions and can be made in minutes. Links to Vegan Chili Cheese Fries and Black Bean Burgers also included.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (12)

Total Time 5 minutes Yield 5 servings

Vegan Bean Dip

This chili bean dip is a flavorful and creamy punch of protein and nutrients! Serve with baked corn chips or veggies for a terrific appetizer or snack. Checkout our cooking demo video above so see how easy this is to prepare.

About Terri Edwards

Hi guys! I am the content creator behind EatPlant-Based and a licensed Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.I am passionate about sharing healthy recipes and tips to empower others to get healthy. I’m so glad you’re here! Read More…

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to making good chili? ›

Rumi Spice's top tips for making chili:
  • Brown the Meat.
  • Don't Forget Vegetables.
  • Elevate with Extra Flavor.
  • Only Add Flavorful Liquids.
  • Opt for Dried Beans.
  • Season Early and Often.
  • Add Some Acidity at the End.
  • Top It Off.

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.

How long does homemade vegan chili last in the fridge? ›

Leftovers: This chili will keep in the fridge for about 4-5 days, and also freezes well. Instant Pot version: Use the sauté feature and cook your onion and garlic, then add the rest of the ingredients (except the tofu, bake that in the oven like normal).

What can I substitute for meat in chili? ›

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

What not to put in chili? ›

Beans and non-vegetable fillers such as rice and pasta are not allowed." If that sounds a bit uptight, the ICS's Homestyle Chili competition defines chili as: "any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients.

What adds the most flavor to chili? ›

If you want more of a smoky flavor, add cumin, Spanish paprika, ancho chili powder, or a combination. If you are looking for more heat, add cayenne, crushed red pepper, or Hungarian paprika. If it's too spicy add a little brown sugar and some sweet paprika.

How do you thicken vegan chili? ›

Stir in some finely ground cornmeal or masa harina.

Start by stirring 1 to 2 tablespoons into your chili, allow the stew to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes more, and it should thicken up a bit. Masa harina (an instantly binding corn flour) also works beautifully to absorb liquid.

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.

How long does vegan chili last? ›

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.

How to make fake chili? ›

directions
  1. Heat oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion, carroes and bell pepper. Saute until onion is limp. Add the garlic and mix. ...
  2. Add the tomatoes, the broth, the lime juice and the cumin and oregano. Bring to a boil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the sugar if desired and lower heat.

Does corn go in chili? ›

Many chili aficionados add a little sweetness to their chili with some brown sugar or even maple syrup to complement the earthy peppers and balance out some of the spice. But adding corn cobs to your chili is the secret to bringing natural sweetness without adding sugar.

Does homemade chili taste better the next day? ›

Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had some time to meld together. Be sure to make a big batch that will leave you with plenty of leftovers. (It freezes well too.)

What is my homemade chili missing? ›

Sometimes after a long simmer, your chili will taste wonderful be maybe missing one little thing you can't figure out. Try a tad bit of vinegar or a squeeze of lime! The acidity in vinegar & limes bring a good roundness to the pot and binds all the flavors together.

What is the fake meat called? ›

Some meat alternatives include mycoprotein, such as Quorn which usually uses egg white as a binder. Another type of single cell protein-based meat alternative (which does not use fungi however but rather bacteria) is Calysta.

What is chili called without beans? ›

Commercial chili prepared without beans is usually called "chili no beans" in the United States.

What brings out the taste in chili? ›

Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of top notch comfort food.

What makes can chili taste better? ›

Although canned chili will already have some seasonings, fresh herbs and spices will add bolder flavor. You can upgrade your chili using ingredients you likely already have on your spice rack, such as chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Does sugar make chili taste better? ›

Now for the piece de resistance: 1-2 heaping Tablespoons brown sugar. The chili tastes completely different without the brown sugar so if you like a subtle sweetness in your chili then you've just got to go for it! Trust me, it will not make your chili taste like candy.

How does Martha Stewart make chili? ›

Add chili powder, cocoa, and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes more. Add tomatoes, broth, and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, until thickened slightly, 25 to 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; serve with sour cream and chives.

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