Vegetarian Bean Chilli – One-Pot, Versatile & Flavour-Packed Weeknight Dinner

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: crushed tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes can enhance flavor, while crushed tomatoes are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is generally cheaper and has a neutral flavor.

black beans

🥗Healthier: pinto beans

💰Cheaper: canned lentils

Canned lentils are often less expensive and provide similar texture.

chili powder

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Cayenne is usually cheaper and adds heat.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add finely chopped onion and red bell pepper; cook without color for 7-8 minutes until translucent.

Crush 2 cloves of garlic and add to the pot; cook until fragrant.

Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the pot; stir to combine and activate flavors.

Add bay leaves and cook for 1 minute to release their oils.

Pour in tomato puree and a splash of water to deglaze the pot; stir well.

Add canned kidney beans and just enough cooking liquid to cover the mixture.

Cover the pot and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to mix flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary