Easy 5-Ingredient Vegan Chili

This hearty and flavorful 5-ingredient vegan chili is the perfect weeknight meal. It’s incredibly simple to make, packed with plant-based protein, and bursting with delicious Tex-Mex flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some quick and healthy dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 5 main ingredients: Perfect for when you’re short on time or groceries.
Hearty and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.
Easy to customize: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized bowl of chili.
Budget-friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder

Instructions

Sauté the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the rinsed black beans, crushed tomatoes, and chili powder.
Simmer for rich flavor: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor.
Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Vegan Chili Simmering in a Pot

Tips for the Best Vegan Chili

Spice it up: For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeno pepper along with the onions.
Make it creamy: Stir in a can of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan sour cream for added creaminess.
Load it up with toppings: Some delicious topping ideas include:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Vegan cheese shreds
- Tortilla chips
- Fresh lime wedges
Double the recipe: This chili is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients and increase the cooking time as needed.

Vegan Chili Topped with Fresh Ingredients

Serving Suggestions

This 5-ingredient vegan chili is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.

Classic bowl of chili: Serve it as is for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can find more vegan recipes for large groups on our website.
Chili cheese fries: Pile it high on top of a plate of French fries and your favorite vegan cheese sauce.
Stuffed sweet potatoes: For a fun and flavorful twist, try stuffing baked sweet potatoes with this chili. Check out our favorite vegan sweet potato recipes.
Chili mac and cheese: Mix it into your favorite vegan mac and cheese recipe for an extra layer of flavor and protein.

“This simple chili recipe is a staple in my kitchen,” says vegan chef, Sarah Thompson. “It’s so versatile and easy to adapt to your own taste. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes.”

FAQs

Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of beans, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions as directed, then add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How long does this chili last in the refrigerator?
This chili will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This chili is actually even better the next day, so it’s a great recipe to make ahead of time. You can find more quick vegan dinner ideas on our website.

What are some other ways to add flavor to this chili?
Along with the spices listed above, you can also add other flavors like cumin, smoked paprika, or even a bit of cocoa powder for depth. Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors!

Ingredients for Vegan Chili on a Table

This 5-ingredient vegan chili is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to become a new favorite. You can find more vegan Tex-Mex recipes and delicious vegan dinner ideas like this easy vegan sweet potato soup on our website!