Barefoot Contessa Vegetarian Chili Recipe
Vegetarian chili is a robust dish made without meat, featuring a combination of beans, vegetables, and a rich, spiced tomato base. Ina Garten’s recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of classic chili in a healthier, plant-based version.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Yellow onions – 2 large, chopped
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Red bell peppers – 2, chopped
- Green bell peppers – 2, chopped
- Zucchini – 1 large, diced
- Crushed tomatoes – 1 (28-ounce) can
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable stock – 2 cups
- Black beans – 2 (15-ounce) cans, drained and rinsed
- Kidney beans – 1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed
- Chili powder – 2 tablespoons
- Ground cumin – 1 tablespoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper – ¼ teaspoon (optional for heat)
- Salt – 1 ½ teaspoons (or to taste)
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges – for serving (optional)
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, red and green bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Add the Tomato Base
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable stock, stirring to combine.
Add the Beans and Simmer
- Add the black beans and kidney beans to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.