"Warm up with this hearty meatless chili beans and grains recipe! Packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors—perfect for cozy nights. #Vegan #HealthyEats"
- **1 teaspoon cocoa powder** (optional, for depth and richness)
- **Salt and black pepper to taste** (season to perfection)
- **Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped** (for garnish and freshness)
- **Lime wedges** (optional, for a zesty finish)
This **meatless chili recipe** is packed with **plant-based protein**, **fiber-rich beans**, and **nutritious whole grains**, making it a **healthy, hearty, and satisfying meal** perfect for **vegan**, **vegetarian**, or **flexitarian diets**. Enjoy it as a **comforting dinner** or **meal prep option**!
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Steps
# How to Make Hearty Meatless Chili Beans and Grains: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a delicious, protein-packed, and **meatless chili recipe**? This **hearty chili beans and grains** dish is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone craving a wholesome, flavorful meal. Packed with **plant-based protein**, fiber, and bold spices, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for meal prep. Follow these detailed steps to create a satisfying **meatless chili** that will warm your soul!
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## Ingredients for Meatless Chili Beans and Grains
- 1 cup **quinoa** or **brown rice** (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) **black beans**, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) **kidney beans**, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) **diced tomatoes**
- 1 cup **frozen corn kernels**
- 1 medium **onion**, diced
- 3 cloves **garlic**, minced
- 1 **bell pepper**, diced
- 2 tbsp **olive oil**
- 2 cups **vegetable broth**
- 2 tbsp **chili powder**
- 1 tsp **cumin**
- 1 tsp **smoked paprika**
- 1/2 tsp **cayenne pepper** (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or avocado for garnish
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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Grains
1. Rinse 1 cup of **quinoa** or **brown rice** under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium pot, combine the grains with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or until grains are tender). Set aside.
### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
1. Heat 2 tbsp of **olive oil** in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced **onion** and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced **garlic** and diced **bell pepper**, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
### Step 3: Add Spices and Beans
1. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp of **chili powder**, 1 tsp of **cumin**, 1 tsp of **smoked paprika**, and 1/2 tsp of **cayenne pepper** (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables.
2. Add the drained **black beans**, **kidney beans**, and **frozen corn kernels** to the pot. Mix everything together.
### Step 4: Simmer the Chili
1. Pour in 2 cups of **vegetable broth** and the can of **diced tomatoes** (with their juices). Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens.
### Step 5: Combine Grains and Chili
1. Once the chili has thickened, stir in the cooked **quinoa** or **brown rice**. Mix well to combine.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt** and **pepper** as needed.
### Step 6: Serve and Garnish
1. Ladle the hearty chili into bowls.
2. Top with fresh **cilantro**, sliced **avocado**, or a dollop of **vegan sour cream** for extra flavor.
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## Tips for the Best Meatless Chili
- **Customize the heat**: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños for extra spice.
- **Add more veggies**: Toss in zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
- **Meal prep friendly**: This chili stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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This **hearty meatless chili beans and grains** recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or healthy meal prep. Packed with **plant-based protein**, fiber-rich beans, and wholesome grains, it’s a nutritious and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy the bold flavors of this **vegetarian chili**!
**Keywords**: meatless chili, vegetarian chili, hearty chili beans, plant-based protein, quinoa chili, vegan chili recipe, healthy chili, easy meatless dinner.