Becky and Chip's Hearty Vegetarian Chili 🌶️🥄

Warm, comforting, and packed full of flavor, this vegetarian chili is the ultimate dish for cozy evenings or meal prep! Perfect for gatherings or as a week-long staple, it’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the beans, making it both hearty and nourishing. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal! 🍚🥖

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 1 lb. pinto beans (soaked overnight)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 large bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer!)
• ¼ cup chopped jalapeños (adjust for spice level!)
• 2 cans whole tomatoes (crushed)
• 1 small can tomato paste
• 1 tsp. chopped garlic (or more if you love garlic!)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 2 dashes Tabasco (or your favorite hot sauce)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Prep the Beans:

   • Soak the pinto beans in water overnight. This helps them cook faster and makes them easier to digest. 💤💧

2. Cook the Beans:

   • Drain the beans and add fresh water.
   • Simmer the beans in a pot for about 2 hours, adding salt during the last 30 minutes.

3. Add Flavor:

   • Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, black pepper, and Tabasco.
   • Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve it Up:

   • Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess!

🌟 Pro Tip: The longer you let the chili simmer, the deeper the flavors will develop. Make it a day ahead for the best taste!

Variations

• Beans Galore: Mix and match with black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for a varied texture and taste.

• Spice Level: Adjust the jalapeños and cayenne to fit your heat tolerance. You can also add a teaspoon of chili flakes for additional kick!

• Veggie Boost: Toss in more vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition! 🌽🥕

• Slow Cooker Method: After soaking the beans, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is perfect for busy days!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your chili with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a complete, satisfying meal. Don’t forget the toppings: diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime can really elevate the flavors! 🥑🌿

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Becky and Chip's Vegetarian Chili! 😊