Looking for a tasty and nutritious vegetarian chili recipe that won't break the bank? Look no further than this delicious 1/2 cup (60 g) Vegetarian Chili recipe, which is rich in flavor, packed with protein, and only 200 calories. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new and healthy, this recipe is sure to impress!

With ingredients like onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, and spices like coriander, cumin, and chili powder, this recipe is both flavor-packed and nutrient-dense. The beans provide a good source of plant-based protein, while the tomatoes and spices add a variety of vitamins and minerals. Overall, this recipe is a great example of how tasty and satisfying vegetarian meals can be.

In this article, we'll explore why you should consider adding this recipe to your meal rotation, how to make it at home, and tips for making it even healthier. Let's dive in!

What is Vegetarian Chili?

Vegetarian chili is a meatless take on traditional chili, which typically includes ground beef or other meat. Instead of meat, vegetarian chili uses a variety of plant-based ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful dish. Popular ingredients include beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Depending on the recipe, vegetarian chili can be mild or spicy, and can be served on its own or topped with a variety of toppings.

Ingredients Used in Vegetarian Chili

To make this particular vegetarian chili recipe, you'll need a variety of nutritious ingredients including:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

Calories in Vegetarian Chili

One serving of this vegetarian chili recipe (1/2 cup or 60 g) contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a great option for those who are looking to manage their caloric intake while still enjoying a hearty and flavorful meal. Of course, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients you use, so be sure to adjust your calculations accordingly.

Protein and Fat Content in Vegetarian Chili

One serving of this vegetarian chili recipe (1/2 cup or 60 g) contains approximately 8 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat. The protein comes primarily from the beans in the recipe, which are a great source of plant-based protein. The fat content is relatively low, which makes this recipe a good choice for those who are looking to eat a healthier diet.

Benefits of Eating Vegetarian Chili

There are a variety of benefits to eating vegetarian chili, including:

• Weight management: Vegetarian chili is a lower-calorie, nutrient-dense meal option that can help promote weight loss or weight maintenance.
• Heart health: Because vegetarian chili is low in saturated fat and high in fiber, it can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Budget-friendly: Vegetarian chili can be made with affordable, easy-to-find ingredients, making it a great option for those on a budget.
• Environmentally-friendly: Producing meat requires a lot of resources, so opting for vegetarian meals can help reduce your environmental impact.

How to Make Vegetarian Chili at Home

Ready to make this delicious vegetarian chili recipe at home? Here's how:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the chili is thick and fragrant.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the chili hot, topped with your favorite toppings (such as grated cheese, chopped cilantro, or sour cream), if desired.

Tips for Making Vegetarian Chili Healthier

If you're looking to make this vegetarian chili recipe even healthier, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use low-sodium or no-salt-added canned beans and tomatoes to reduce the sodium content of the recipe.
• Reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe by using a non-stick pan or cooking spray instead of vegetable oil.
• Experiment with different types of spices to add flavor without adding extra calories or sodium.

Ways to Serve Vegetarian Chili

Vegetarian chili can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Serve the chili on its own, topped with your favorite toppings (such as grated cheese, chopped cilantro, or sour cream).
• Serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Use the chili as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Add the chili to a baked potato or sweet potato for a hearty and filling dinner.

Variations of Vegetarian Chili Recipes

While this particular vegetarian chili recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add different types of beans to the recipe, such as chickpeas or pinto beans.
• Experiment with different types of vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers.
• Make the recipe spicier or milder by adjusting the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper you use.
• Add a squeeze of lime or a dollop of Greek yogurt to brighten up the flavors.

Conclusion

All in all, vegetarian chili is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is both easy to make and easy on the wallet. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to cut back on your meat consumption, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.