Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!)

Name: Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon chili powder blend; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 medium parsnips, peeled and diced; 2 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow and/or orange), diced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 3 cups low sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 2 large cilantro sprigs; 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 to 1½ cups cooked quinoa; For serving: sliced avocado, sliced scallions, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips, and/or hot sauce

By:

dani

Published:

October 9, 2025

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Why This Recipe Works

When it comes to making the Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!), spices play a crucial role. Each spice adds its unique touch, wrapping around the other ingredients to create a flavor explosion. The chili powder brings heat, while cumin packs a warm, earthy tone. Coriander adds a hint of citrusiness, and oregano contributes a classic herbal note. Just imagine the lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen as those spices blend!

Now, let’s talk about quinoa. It’s not just any grain; quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. This makes it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. Plus, its chewy texture complements the other ingredients in your chili perfectly, ensuring each bite is hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!)

Chili is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or hosting friends. The Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!) doesn’t just warm your belly; it brings people together. It’s super versatile too. You can tailor it to your preferences by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level.

Health-wise, this chili is a winner. Packed with colorful vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and fiber-filled beans, it’s not just delicious but also nutritious. You’ll feel satisfied without any of that heavy feeling that comes from other meals. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you feeling good about your choices while still indulging in delightful flavors.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon chili powder blend
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 medium parsnips, peeled and diced
2 sweet bell peppers (red, yellow and/or orange), diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
3 cups low sodium vegetable or chicken broth
2 large cilantro sprigs
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
1 to 1½ cups cooked quinoa
For serving: sliced avocado, sliced scallions, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips, and/or hot sauce

Preparing Your Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!)

Mixing the Spices

Start this flavor journey by mixing your spices! In a small bowl, take the chili powder blend, cumin, coriander, oregano, and cinnamon. Give them a good stir to help the flavors come together. Set this mix aside for now—each spice will shine in the final dish.

Cooking the Vegetables

Next, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onion, carrots, parsnips, and bell peppers. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Get cozy with the stirring; let the veggies become soft and golden—this should take around 5 to 7 minutes.

Add the jalapeño and garlic to the pan. After a minute, sprinkle in your spice mix. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until that delightful aroma fills your kitchen.

Finishing the Chili

Now, it’s time to bring all those flavors together! Pour in the diced tomatoes (juices included) and vegetable broth. Toss in the cilantro sprigs, then season again with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer gently, letting the chili thicken for about 5 minutes.

Stir in the drained beans, and let them warm up for another 5 minutes. You want the vegetables soft and cozy. Finally, mix in 1 to 1½ cups of cooked quinoa, adjusting for your preferred thickness. Heat through, then taste it! Adjust seasoning as needed, and don’t forget to remove the cilantro sprigs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, plate your chili with a flourish. Top it off with sliced avocado, scallions, and your choice of cheese or sour cream for creaminess. For a satisfying crunch, pair it with crushed tortilla chips or a drizzle of hot sauce. Each serving can be easily customized to your liking.

Tips for Success

If you want to control the spice level, adjust the jalapeño and chili powder according to your taste buds.
Letting the chili simmer longer enhances the flavor. If you have the time, give it a little extra love.
Using day-old quinoa yields better texture in the chili. It absorbs flavors beautifully.

Variations

Feel free to mix things up! You can substitute beans to change the flavor—try kidney beans or chickpeas for a fun twist. Want to add more veggies? Toss in zucchini or corn for extra sweetness. Experimenting with different spice blends can lead to unique flavor profiles that keep it exciting every time you make this dish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? Not a problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later. Just make sure to label them for easy access!

Pairing Ideas

To make your meal complete, consider serving your chili with homemade cornbread or a fresh green salad. These pairings balance the flavors and add variety. If you’re looking for a drink, how about a light white wine or refreshing iced tea?

FAQs

1. Can I make this quinoa chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully after a day in the fridge, and it can also be frozen.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free broth.

3. How can I make this chili spicier?
Boost the heat by adding extra jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

4. Can I substitute the quinoa?
Yes! Feel free to swap in rice, or use lentils for a different texture.

5. What toppings do you recommend?
Toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, and sour cream pair perfectly with this chili.

This Ultimate Vegetarian Quinoa Chili (Vegan!) is the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and comfort, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal or looking for healthy meal prep options, this chili delights with wholesome goodness. Enjoy the experience of creating this dish, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!