This chili is a cozy twist on the classic, blending warming spices, colorful veggies, and a touch of pumpkin for creamy richness and depth. With sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and a medley of beans, it’s a one-pot meal that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. Perfect for chilly nights, game days, or anytime you want a bold, comforting dish that just happens to be vegan. Serve it up with your favorite toppings and dig in!
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry mixed beans* (or 4-5 cups cooked / 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
- 2 sweet potatoes, chopped (2-3 cups)
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 2 Tbsp fresh garlic, minced (4-6 cloves)
- 2 Tbsp cumin
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 Tbsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp coriander
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2-3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (16-ounce) can pure packed pumpkin (not pie filling)
- Salt to taste (optional)
- Toppings (optional): green onions, cheese, avocado, nutritional yeast (nooch), cilantro, fresh lime
Instructions
- Cook the Beans (If Using Dry Beans) rinse dry beans and soak for at least 12 hours or overnight in clean water. Drain, rinse, and cook in a pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 1-1.5 hours, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of vegetable broth. Sauté the onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and jalapeño (if using) until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Spices & Tomatoes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, coriander, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Simmer the Chili. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the chili thickens too much, add more broth as needed.
- Finish with Beans & Pumpkin.Stir in the cooked beans and pumpkin puree. Cook for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt if needed.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, cilantro, avocado, cheese, nutritional yeast, or a squeeze of fresh lime. Enjoy with warm cornbread or over rice!
Enjoy!