Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili Recipe

Looking for a hearty, healthy, and flavorful vegetarian chili recipe? This Quinoa and Black Bean Chili is packed with protein, fiber, and all the delicious chili flavors you crave. It’s easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal, and even better the next day!

Why Quinoa and Black Beans?

Quinoa and black beans are nutritional powerhouses. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Black beans are also a great source of protein and fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Together, they create a wonderfully textured and satisfying chili base.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, and quinoa. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked through and the chili has thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Add more veggies: Corn, zucchini, or sweet potatoes would be delicious additions to this chili.
• Make it in a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Freezing instructions: Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy this flavorful and healthy Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili! It’s a perfect meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:
olive oil, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, quinoa, salt, pepper, sour cream, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro

Tags:
vegetarian chili, quinoa chili, black bean chili, vegetarian recipe, chili recipe, quinoa, black beans, healthy recipe, easy recipe, weeknight meal, protein, fiber, vegan, gluten-free, recipe, cooking, food, dinner, lunch, slow cooker, freezing, tips, variations, spicy, corn, zucchini, sweet potato, meatless, plant-based