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Vegan Vegetable Chili with tortilla chips to the right of the bowl. Toppings include vegan sour cream, cheese, orange bell peppers, and green onions.

Three Bean High Protein Chili

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
Hearty, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein, this High-Protein Vegetable Chili is a satisfying one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Made with three types of beans, colorful veggies, and warming spices, it’s both nourishing and comforting.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 563 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 stirring spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced any color you prefer
  • 2 jalapenos, chopped optional
  • 2 cups riced frozen cauliflower
  • 30 oz black beans 2 cans drained and rinsed
  • 15 oz pinto beans 1 can drained and rinsed
  • 15 oz great northern beans 1 can drained and rinsed
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 20 oz vegetable broth

Spices

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp celery seed
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 dried bay leaves 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or other sweetener of choice - i.e. honey, brown sugar

Toppings

  • 6 tbsp vegan cheddar cheese see recipe note for further topping suggestions

Instructions
 

Saute Aromatics

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the red bell pepper, jalapeno, onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin to the pepper, onion, and garlic and mixture. Continue to saute for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add the Cauliflower, Beans, and Tomatoes

  • Add the riced cauliflower, beans, tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot and stir.

Add the Remaining Seasonings

  • Add the oregano, celery seed, thyme, bay leaves, kosher salt, black pepper, and maple syrup to the chili and stir.

Simmer

  • Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili simmer for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Taste and Serve

  • Remove the bay leaf and taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
  • Once the chili is ready, serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Top your vegan or vegetarian chili with favorites like Greek yogurt or plant-based sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh herbs (like cilantro), chopped onion, avocado, jalapeño, tortilla chips, or even cornbread croutons for extra crunch.
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutrition information provided is an estimate generated using a nutrition calculator. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For the most accurate results, please calculate using your preferred nutrition calculator or consult with a registered dietitian.

Nutrition

Calories: 563kcalCarbohydrates: 93gProtein: 30gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 962mgPotassium: 1821mgFiber: 30gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 1993IUVitamin C: 73mgCalcium: 241mgIron: 10mg
Keyword soup
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