Vegetarian Bean Chilli Recipe

Enjoy this hearty and flavourful vegetarian bean chilli with cocoa powder, perfect for cozy evenings or a speedy dinner. The addition of cocoa powder adds a depth of flavour and richness to the chill.

This dish for me is the ultimate food prep as you can eat it with so many different combinations!

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 bell peppers, diced

• 1 large carrot, grated

• 1 cup sweetcorn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• 2 cans (14 oz each) of mixed beans (such as kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans), drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon chilli powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado

Instructions:

1. Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced bell peppers, grated carrot, and sweet corn kernels. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Add the drained and rinsed mixed beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.

4. Season: Sprinkle the cocoa powder, chilli powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

5. Simmer: Bring the chilli to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavours meld together and the chilli thickens to your desired consistency.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.

7. Serve: Ladle the vegetarian bean chilli into bowls and serve hot. Top with your favourite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped coriander, or sliced avocado. For a large meal have with rice, jacket potato and corn chips.