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Perfect Vegan Chili (Oil-free)

This low calorie vegan chili is a favorite in my household. Serve with vegan cornbread for the ultimate Fall comfort food.
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced thin or chopped
  • 1 cup chopped sweet bell peppers
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, diced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Chipotle chili pepper
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 1-2 dashes cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 14 oz cans beans, drained and rinsed (combination of black, pinto, kidney) (I usually use 2 cans black beans, 1 can pinto)
  • 2 cans petite diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 large handful cilantro leaves, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large pot over medium high heat. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, and jalapeno. (Add a tbsp of vegetable broth or water to the pan if vegetables start to stick.) Saute for a few minutes to soften veggies. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle all spices (except bay leaf) over veggies and stir to combine. Allow to cook for a minute or so more. Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, beans, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then allow to simmer for about 20 minutes (covered), and then another 10-15 minutes (uncovered) until it begins to thicken. Stir occasionally.
  • Discard bay leaf. Put about 1½ cups of the vegan chili in a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth. Pour back into pot of chili and stir to combine. (This allows for a nice hearty texture that is thick, without having to add anything extra to achieve it.)
  • Stir in chopped cilantro. Serve and enjoy with your favorite chili toppings! Suggestions include vegan sour cream, vegan grated cheese, sliced green onion, or jalapeno slices.

Notes

Nutrition Information: Recipe yields: 4 servings, Per serving: Calories: 315, Carbohydrates: 59g, Protein: 18.7g, Fat: 2.7g, Saturated Fat: 0.4g, Fiber: 19.8g, Sugar: 7g, Cholesterol: 0mg 
**Please note: These nutrition facts are provided as an estimate and may vary depending on your ingredients. Check product labels or use an online calculator for additional accuracy.