How to cook vegetarian chili

Warm and satisfying, our easy vegetarian chilli is perfect for batch-cooking and can easily be doubled if you have a large enough pan. It's a delightful option for a comforting dinner, packed with nourishing vegetables that can help you reach your 5-a-day goal.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 finely chopped carrots
• 2 finely chopped celery sticks
• 2 finely chopped onions
• 2 tsp dried mixed herbs
• 2 crushed garlic cloves or finely grated
• 1 sliced red pepper
• 1 sliced green pepper
• 2-3 tsp chilli powder (adjust to your preferred heat level)
• 2 tsp sweet smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 400g can of drained red kidney beans
• 400g can of drained black beans
• 2 x 400g cans of chopped tomatoes

• 400ml vegetable stock
• Cooked rice, grated cheddar, and soured cream for serving (optional)

Method:

STEP 1:

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over low-medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, onions, and mixed herbs. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft but not golden. If needed, you can add a splash of water to prevent sticking.

STEP 2:

Next, stir in the crushed garlic, red and green peppers, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peppers begin to soften. Sprinkle in the chilli powder and sweet smoked paprika. Increase the heat to medium and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously. Add the tomato purée and cook for another minute. Then, add the drained red kidney beans, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and vegetable stock.

STEP 3:

Give everything a good stir, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 25-35 minutes until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Serve your delicious vegetarian chilli with cooked rice and, if desired, top it off with grated cheddar and a dollop of soured cream. Enjoy this satisfying and wholesome meal that not only warms the soul but also adds a burst of flavor to your palate. Feel free to store any leftovers in the freezer for future enjoyment.

Earlier SSP told how to brew the perfect pot of tea.