Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne recipe

In our home, weeknight dinners are often a dance between speed, nutrition, and – let’s be honest – convincing my sometimes-fussy eaters that vegetables are, in fact, delicious. For years, this meant a rotation of familiar pasta dishes and quick stir-fries. But I was craving something more, something with depth and warmth, something that could satisfy even the most dedicated meat-lover in my family (that’s my husband!). That’s when I stumbled upon the magic of Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne.

Initially, I was skeptical. Could a bean-based chilli truly deliver the hearty satisfaction of its meaty counterpart? The answer, unequivocally, is yes! This isn’t just any vegetarian chilli; it’s a flavour explosion. The combination of different beans provides a wonderful textural complexity, while the smoky paprika and chipotle peppers infuse it with a rich, irresistible depth.

From the first spoonful, we were hooked. My husband, a self-proclaimed chilli connoisseur, declared it “surprisingly amazing” (high praise indeed!). The kids, initially hesitant about the “beans,” devoured it with gusto, especially when served with their favourite tortilla chips. This Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne has become a regular fixture in our meal rotation, a comforting and flavourful dish that everyone genuinely enjoys. It’s proof that plant-based eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying, and it’s a recipe I’m excited to share with you. Get ready to experience the smoky, hearty goodness of this incredible vegetarian chilli!

Ingredients: The Heart of Smoky Bean Goodness

This recipe thrives on a medley of beans and flavourful spices. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; most of these are pantry staples, and the result is well worth the effort. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own pot of smoky, delicious chilli:

For the Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and building flavour.
• 1 large onion, chopped: The aromatic foundation of our chilli.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for depth and pungent flavour.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness, colour, and a touch of crunch.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Complements the red pepper and adds another layer of flavour.
• 2 carrots, diced: Introduce subtle sweetness and texture.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds an earthy note and aromatic complexity.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: The juicy, tangy backbone of the chilli.
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Classic chilli beans, providing heartiness.
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a different texture and slightly sweeter flavour.
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy white beans that contribute to the chilli’s body.
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Another hearty bean variety, adding to the textural diversity.
• 1 cup vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavour.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavour and adds richness.

For the Smoky Spice Blend:

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika: The star of the show, providing that signature smoky flavour. Use sweet or hot smoked paprika depending on your preference.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds warmth and classic chilli flavour. Adjust to taste for desired heat.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and warm, a staple in chilli recipes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slightly peppery and herbaceous note.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For an extra kick of heat. Omit or reduce if you prefer a milder chilli.
• ½ teaspoon chipotle powder (or adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers, finely chopped): Enhances the smoky flavour and adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavours.

Optional Add-ins (for extra depth and flavour):

• 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar: A touch of sweetness to round out the flavours.
• 1 ounce dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), finely chopped: Adds a subtle depth and richness that enhances the other flavours.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and a bright herbal note.
• Lime wedges (for serving): Provides a zesty squeeze to brighten the chilli.

High-Quality Ingredients for Maximum Flavour:

While this recipe is forgiving, using high-quality ingredients will elevate the final dish. Opt for good quality olive oil, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices. Smoked paprika, in particular, is key to achieving that authentic smoky taste, so choose a reputable brand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beans as well – borlotti beans or even chickpeas could be interesting additions.

Instructions: Crafting Your Smoky Bean Chilli Masterpiece

Creating this Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne is a straightforward process, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this flavourful dish to life:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics (Building the Flavour Base)

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Bloom the Spices (Unlocking Maximum Flavour)

1. Add Spices: Sprinkle the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and chipotle powder (or adobo sauce) over the vegetables.
2. Toast Spices: Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This “blooming” process releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavour. Be careful not to burn the spices.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop the Chilli (Bringing it All Together)

1. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and stir in the tomato paste. Mix well to combine everything with the spices and vegetables.
2. Add Beans and Broth: Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth.
3. Simmer: Bring the chilli to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavours will meld and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Season and Finish (Perfecting the Taste)

1. Season to Taste: After simmering, season the chilli generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and adjust as needed.
2. Optional Additions (Enhancing Complexity): If desired, stir in the apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar, maple syrup or brown sugar, and dark chocolate. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. These additions add layers of flavour and balance.
3. Simmer Further (Optional): If you have time, continue to simmer the chilli uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly and the flavours to further develop.
4. Rest (For Deeper Flavour): Ideally, let the chilli rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld and deepen even further. Chilli often tastes even better the next day!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
2. Serve Hot: Serve your Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne hot and enjoy the hearty, smoky flavours!

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Skip the Spice Blooming: This step is crucial for unlocking the full flavour potential of the spices.
• Simmering Time Matters: Allow ample simmering time for the flavours to meld and deepen. The longer, the better!
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Seasoning is key to a delicious chilli. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your preference.
• Embrace Leftovers: This chilli is even more flavourful the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Nutrition Facts: A Bowlful of Goodness

This Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this chilli a healthy and satisfying meal.

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups (350-400 grams)

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving (estimated, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion size):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 18-22 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams (primarily from olive oil and naturally occurring fats in beans)
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (can vary depending on broth and canned bean choices; using low-sodium options will reduce sodium content)
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
• Fiber: 15-20 grams
• Sugar: 8-12 grams (naturally occurring sugars from vegetables and tomatoes)

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Protein: The combination of mixed beans provides a significant amount of plant-based protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Rich in Fiber: Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and contributing to feelings of fullness.
• Excellent Source of Vitamins and Minerals: This chilli is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and beans, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium.
• Low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol-Free: A healthy choice for heart health, being naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly: Perfect for those following plant-based diets.

Note: These are estimated nutritional values and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific ingredients you use. Remember to adjust serving sizes to your individual needs.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Under an Hour

One of the beauties of this Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne is that it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (chopping vegetables, gathering ingredients)
• Cook Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes (simmering time)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-70 minutes

Tips for Speeding Up Prep Time:

• Pre-chop Vegetables: Chop your vegetables ahead of time (the day before or in the morning) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Use Pre-minced Garlic: While fresh garlic is always best, using pre-minced garlic can save you a few minutes.
• Utilize a Food Processor (for chopping): If you have a food processor with a chopping attachment, use it to quickly chop the onions, peppers, carrots, and celery. Be careful not to over-process.
• Canned Beans are Your Friend: Using canned beans significantly reduces prep time compared to cooking dried beans from scratch.

While the total time is around an hour, much of that is hands-off simmering time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the chilli cooks and develops its flavour. The active cooking time is relatively short, making it a manageable meal even on busy days.

How to Serve Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne: Endless Possibilities

This versatile chilli is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides and toppings. Here are some fantastic ways to serve your Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne:

Classic Accompaniments:

• Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa are excellent bases for serving chilli. The grains soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread is a classic pairing with chilli. Its sweetness contrasts nicely with the smoky and savory flavours.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chilli or enjoying alongside.
• Baked Potatoes: Top a fluffy baked potato with a generous ladle of chilli for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes or sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweeter and healthier alternative to regular potatoes.

Toppings Galore:

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a vegan cheese alternative.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (or vegan sour cream): Adds coolness and creaminess to balance the spice.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Brightens the flavour and adds a fresh herbal note.
• Diced Red Onion or Scallions: Adds a sharp and pungent bite.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado or guacamole adds richness and healthy fats.
• Jalapeños (fresh or pickled): For extra heat.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavours and adds a zesty touch.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like it extra spicy!

Creative Serving Ideas:

• Chilli Cheese Fries: Load up fries with chilli and cheese for a decadent treat.
• Chilli Dogs: Use the chilli as a topping for hot dogs (vegetarian or meat-based).
• Chilli Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chilli, cheese, and your favourite nacho toppings.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with chilli and bake for a complete meal.
• Chilli Soup: Serve it as a hearty soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro.
• Over Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a delicious and comforting base for the chilli.

Serving for a Crowd:

Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne is perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s easy to make a large batch, and it holds up well for potlucks, parties, or game day gatherings. Serve it buffet-style with a variety of toppings and sides so everyone can customize their bowls. Keep the chilli warm in a slow cooker or on the stovetop over low heat.

Additional Tips for Chilli Non Carne Perfection (5 Expert Tips)

Want to take your Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne to the next level? Here are five expert tips to ensure chilli perfection every time:

1. Embrace the Smoky Flavor: Don’t skimp on the smoked paprika! It’s the key ingredient that gives this chilli its signature smoky depth. Experiment with different types of smoked paprika – sweet, hot, or even oak-smoked – to find your favourite flavour profile. Adding chipotle peppers (powder or adobo sauce) further enhances the smokiness and adds a layer of complexity.
2. Layer Your Flavours: Building flavour in stages is crucial. Sautéing the aromatics (onion and garlic) first, then blooming the spices in the hot oil before adding the tomatoes and beans, creates a much richer and more complex flavour than simply throwing everything into the pot at once.
3. Simmer Low and Slow: Patience is key when making chilli. Simmering it low and slow for at least 30 minutes, and preferably longer, allows the flavours to meld together beautifully and the beans to become tender and creamy. Longer simmering also helps the chilli thicken naturally.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Customize: This recipe is a fantastic base, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Add different vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms. Experiment with other beans like borlotti or chickpeas. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili powder and cayenne pepper.
5. Make it Ahead of Time: Chilli is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day! The flavours deepen and meld together overnight in the refrigerator. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for easy and flavourful meals. It also freezes beautifully, so you can always have a delicious chilli on hand.

FAQ: Your Chilli Non Carne Questions Answered

Got questions about making Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q1: Can I make this chilli spicier?

A: Absolutely! To increase the heat, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder. You can also include finely chopped fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the vegetables. Taste as you go and add more spice gradually until you reach your desired level of heat. Serving with hot sauce on the side is also a great option for those who like extra spice.

Q2: Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

A: Yes, you can definitely use dried beans. You’ll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the chilli. This will add some extra time to the overall preparation, but many believe dried beans have a superior flavour and texture. Make sure to adjust the amount of liquid in the recipe accordingly, as dried beans will absorb more liquid during cooking.

Q3: Can I make this chilli in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Sauté the onions, garlic, and vegetables in a skillet on the stovetop as directed in Step 1. Then, transfer the sautéed vegetables and all remaining ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavours have melded.

Q4: Can I freeze leftover chilli?

A: Yes, Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne freezes beautifully! Allow the chilli to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3-4 months. To thaw, you can either defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen in a pot over low heat. It’s a great meal prep option to have on hand for quick and easy dinners.

Q5: What if I don’t have all the types of beans listed? Can I substitute?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute beans based on what you have available or prefer. The beauty of mixed bean chilli is its versatility. If you don’t have cannellini beans, for example, you could use great northern beans or even chickpeas. If you’re missing pinto beans, you could use more kidney beans or black beans. Aim for a variety of textures and flavours by using a mix of different bean types, but don’t worry if you need to make substitutions. The chilli will still be delicious!

Enjoy creating your own pot of Smoky Mixed Bean Chilli Non Carne! It’s a hearty, flavourful, and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favourite. Happy cooking!

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