Vegan Chili Sin Carne Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, flavor-packed meal that’s endlessly satisfying and plant-based, you’re in for a treat with my favorite Vegan Chili Sin Carne. This beautiful one-pot wonder is brimming with bold spices, protein-rich beans, sweet corn, and colorful peppers, making it a complete comfort dish you’ll want to cozy up with all year round. Vibrant, nourishing, and so easy to make, this chili captures everything great about a classic bowl of chili—just without the meat, and with plenty of kindness and taste.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll whip up a Vegan Chili Sin Carne bursting with deep flavors and fabulous textures. Each one has an important part to play, giving you rich color, plenty of bite, and that signature chili warmth in every spoonful!

• Olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and helps to soften the veggies as your first flavor base.
• Onion (red or yellow): Brings sweetness and depth to the chili as it cooks.
• Garlic cloves: Essential for aromatic punch — don’t skip!
• Red bell pepper: Pops of natural sweetness and color throughout your bowl.
• Carrot: Gives subtle sweetness and hearty texture, plus a nutritional boost.
• Celery stalks: Offers fresh crispness and a classic chili base note.
• Chili powder: The backbone of your spice blend, bringing that classic warmth.
• Ground cumin: Deepens the flavor with an earthy, smoky note.
• Smoked paprika: Adds irresistible smokiness that makes the chili truly special.
• Canned diced tomatoes: The savory, juicy foundation for your chili sauce.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens up the chili beautifully.
• Canned kidney beans (rinsed & drained): Protein powerhouses that soak up all the spices.
• Canned black beans (rinsed & drained): Another layer of earthiness and creamy texture.
• Corn kernels (fresh or frozen): Adds bursts of sweetness — so good!
• Vegetable broth: Helps everything come together in a rich, comforting sauce.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors — taste and adjust!
• Optional toppings (avocado, cilantro, lime, vegan sour cream): For serving — make it your own!

How to Make Vegan Chili Sin Carne

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating your olive oil in a big, sturdy pot over medium heat. Toss in the onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they turn tender and aromatic. Don’t forget the garlic! Add it in and let everything mingle for another minute, releasing those gorgeous scents. This veggie mix is where the flavor party begins for your Vegan Chili Sin Carne.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat all those lovely sautéed veggies. Let the spices toast for a minute or so, which really unlocks their full flavor and gives your Vegan Chili Sin Carne that complex depth you’ll crave.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Now, pour in the canned diced tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Mix everything together so you get a cohesive, rich base. This is the heart of your chili, and it’s what makes every spoonful so delightfully saucy and satisfying.

Step 4: Add Beans, Corn, and Broth

Add both kidney beans and black beans, along with the corn kernels. Pour in the vegetable broth and give everything a good stir. This is when your Vegan Chili Sin Carne starts to look like the real deal, full of color and texture.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it all simmer (uncovered) for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally. This time lets the flavors meld together and the chili thicken up just right. If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply simmer a bit longer or mash some of the beans with your spoon.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

Season your Vegan Chili Sin Carne with plenty of salt and black pepper, tasting until it’s just how you like it. If you love a hit of heat or smokiness, add extra chili powder or smoked paprika. Now it’s ready to serve—hot, bold, and comforting!

How to Serve Vegan Chili Sin Carne

Garnishes

The right toppings can turn a great dish into an unforgettable one! For Vegan Chili Sin Carne, try creamy avocado slices, a dollop of vegan sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Each garnish adds a unique twist and extra flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

This chili is a superstar on its own, but it’s also divine with sides. Serve it over fluffy rice, alongside warm, crusty bread, or with a scoop of vegan cornbread. For an extra treat, pair with crispy tortilla chips or a leafy green salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful! Ladle Vegan Chili Sin Carne into baked sweet potatoes, use it as a filling for tacos or burritos, or layer it in a casserole dish with tortilla chips and vegan cheese for an easy chili nachos bake. This recipe is endlessly adaptable to your cravings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Vegan Chili Sin Carne actually tastes even better the next day! Simply allow leftovers to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, making it perfect for meal prep or speedy lunches.

Freezing

If you want to stock up your freezer, divide cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags. Vegan Chili Sin Carne freezes like a dream for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for another bowl.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick lunch—stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make Vegan Chili Sin Carne in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After sautéing your veggies and spices in a pan, just transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the rest of the ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The flavors become even more melded and rich using this method.

What beans can I use if I don’t have kidney or black beans?

This chili is flexible—try pinto, cannellini, or even chickpeas! Any hearty bean will soak up the sauce and bring plenty of protein to your Vegan Chili Sin Carne.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Totally! Add fresh or jarred jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to taste. You control the heat, so make your Vegan Chili Sin Carne as fiery as you like.

How can I thicken my chili?

If your chili is a little thinner than you’d like, let it simmer uncovered so the excess liquid evaporates. Alternatively, mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot—they’ll naturally thicken your Vegan Chili Sin Carne.

Is Vegan Chili Sin Carne gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check your ingredients (especially broth and toppings) to ensure they’re gluten-free, this recipe is a wonderful gluten-free comfort food meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a steaming bowl of Vegan Chili Sin Carne—it’s simple, nourishing, and a real celebration of plant-based goodness. I hope you’ll make it soon, customize with your favorite toppings, and discover just how satisfying this cozy classic can be!