When thinking about a comforting bowl of chili this healthy and hearty vegetarian chili is a great choice. Choosing beans and broccoli along with the usual spices and tomatoes make it a deliciously filling healthy choice.
Yield: 5 – 1 ½ Cup Servings
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (dry) pinto beans
- 3 cups (dry) kidney or black beans
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 5 cups broccoli, roasted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups onions, diced
- 1 1/2 cups celery, diced
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 3/4 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons fresh oregano (sub 1 tablespoon dry)
- 3 cups vegetable broth, low sodium
- 5 ounces tomato paste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped
Optional: You may add corn or chopped greens
Preparation:
Beans
Soak pinto beans and kidney beans (or black beans) in separate bowls overnight, with enough water to cover by 2”.
Drain the water, rinse the beans, and place in separate pots with enough water to cover by 3”. Add one tablespoon of salt to each pot. Bring to a boil and simmer until cooked al dente. (on the firm side, but not cooked to the point of being mushy) Check for doneness; continue cooking if needed. When done, drain (reserving the water) and set aside.
Broccoli
Preheat oven to 375º. In a mixing bowl, combine the broccoli with 1/8 cup of olive oil 3/4 teaspoon salt, and half of the oregano. Roast for 8 minutes and test for doneness by poking a few pieces with a fork. If you meet just a little resistance, it is ready. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Chili
In a large pot or Dutch oven heat the Olive Oil then add onion, celery, and garlic and sauté over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the cumin, chili powder, and four, stir, and let cook for a few more minutes. Slowly add the broth, tomato paste, tomatoes and oregano.
Add the beans, stir, and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. Add the broccoli and vegetables, parsley, salt, and citrus juice and stir. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes adding reserved water to desired consistency.