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Bean and Mushroom Chili

Bean and Mushroom Chili

A hearty and flavorful Bean and Mushroom Chili combining protein-packed beans and earthy mushrooms simmered in a rich blend of spices. This vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect for a quick, comforting dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans and Mushrooms

  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, rinsed and chopped

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (optional), chopped

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse and chop the mushrooms, onions, garlic, and bell peppers (if using). Having all ingredients prepped in advance smooths the cooking process.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes, to release their natural sweetness.
  3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add chopped mushrooms to the pot and sauté until they release moisture and begin to brown, about 7-10 minutes, building the chili’s rich umami flavor.
  4. Add Spices and Peppers: Sprinkle in chili powder and cumin. Stir in chopped bell peppers if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes to unlock full aroma of spices.
  5. Combine Beans and Tomatoes: Add drained beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well to create a hearty, balanced mixture.
  6. Simmer and Serve: Bring chili to a gentle simmer and cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.

Notes

  • Use fresh mushrooms and consider adding a splash of soy sauce while cooking for deeper umami flavor.
  • Don’t skip the simmering step, as it melds flavors and improves texture.
  • Add broth gradually to avoid making the chili too watery.
  • Freshly minced garlic offers sharper, more pronounced flavor than pre-minced garlic.
  • Leftover chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

Nutrition

Keywords: bean chili, mushroom chili, vegetarian chili, hearty dinner, plant-based chili, easy chili recipe