Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals
A hearty and healthy Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl that is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
This Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and beans, making it a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich in flavor with a blend of spices and fresh ingredients
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat
A Nutritional Powerhouse
This Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is not just delicious; it’s packed with essential nutrients. The combination of black beans and kidney beans provides a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake without meat. The variety of vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that supports overall health.
Moreover, the inclusion of spices such as chili powder and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also offers additional health benefits. Spices can aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties, making this chili not just comforting but also beneficial for your body.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or use up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Consider adding corn, sweet potatoes, or even leafy greens like spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. This adaptability makes it perfect for families, as everyone can enjoy their own personalized bowl.
Additionally, the toppings are endless! From avocado slices and shredded cheese to fresh cilantro and sour cream, each topping can elevate your chili experience. This means that each time you make it, you can create a new and exciting flavor profile.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prepping has become a popular strategy for maintaining a healthy diet, and this chili is perfect for it. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out, and refrigerate or freeze individual servings. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.
When reheating, the flavors only deepen, making the chili even more delicious. Simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in minutes. It's an ideal option for busy weekdays or when you need a comforting dinner without the hassle.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add any additional spices or toppings you enjoy!
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add Remaining Vegetables
Stir in the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Combine Beans and Tomatoes
Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Chili
Reduce heat and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot in bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious chili!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl, the options are vast. Pair it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast that complements the chili's warmth. A simple green salad can also enhance the meal, adding freshness and texture.
For an extra kick, consider offering hot sauce or jalapeños on the side. This way, everyone can adjust the heat level according to their preferences, making it a truly personalized dining experience.
Storage Tips
To store your leftover chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, or you can freeze it for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning out individual servings to make reheating easier.
For best results when reheating frozen chili, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This will help retain the flavors and texture, making it taste just as good as when you first made it.
Nutritional Benefits
This chili is a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. The beans provide both soluble and insoluble fiber, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full longer. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage their weight or improve their overall health.
Additionally, the variety of vegetables contributes to a range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining healthy skin, supporting the immune system, and regulating blood pressure, making this chili not just a tasty meal but a nourishing one too.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and can save you prep time!
→ Is this chili vegan?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making it a vegan-friendly dish.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
→ Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl
A hearty and healthy Vegetable and Bean Chili Bowl that is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
What You'll Need
Chili Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Stir in the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot in bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, let the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g