I’ll never forget the first time I tried a hearty, plant-based chili. It was at a friend’s house, and I was skeptical-vegetarian chili? Could it really pack the same punch as the meaty version I was used to? I was so wrong. The flavors were rich and complex, with layers that made me rethink my whole approach to cooking. That’s when I discovered Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli recipe.
Jamie has this incredible way of transforming simple ingredients into bold, comforting meals. His vegetarian chili, packed with veggies and spices, was a game changer. And since then, it’s become a go-to meal when I need something satisfying, flavorful, and healthy. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just want to try something new, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s vegetarian chili isn’t just for vegetarians; it’s for anyone who loves food that fills you up and satisfies you without feeling heavy. He’s got a knack for making plant-based meals feel indulgent, and this recipe is no exception. The great thing about it is how customizable it is-you can make it as spicy as you want or load it up with different veggies based on what you have in the fridge.
What I love most about this chili is how it combines hearty beans, rich tomatoes, and spices, creating a dish that’s just as satisfying as any meaty version. It’s perfect for batch cooking or feeding a crowd, and it gets even better the next day, which makes it ideal for meal prepping.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli:
- Olive oil – For sautéing and creating a smooth base
- Onions – A must for that aromatic base
- Garlic – Adds a nice depth of flavor
- Carrots – A bit of sweetness and crunch
- Celery – For texture and freshness
- Bell peppers – Choose your favorite colors; they add both flavor and color
- Red kidney beans – They’re hearty and hold up well in the chili
- Chopped tomatoes – A rich, tangy base that makes up the bulk of the sauce
- Tomato paste – For a concentrated tomato flavor
- Vegetable stock – Adds richness to the chili
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika – The magic trio that gives the chili its bold flavor
- Fresh coriander – Adds freshness and a little zing
- Lime – A squeeze of lime at the end brightens up the whole dish
- Avocado (optional) – A creamy topping that pairs perfectly with the spiciness
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli
Making Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli is pretty straightforward. I’ll walk you through it:
- Prep the ingredients: Dice the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. You want everything in small pieces for a good texture balance in the chili.
- Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 10 minutes until softened and golden.
- Add the peppers and spices: Throw in the chopped bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Let them cook for a few more minutes until everything is fragrant.
- Simmer with beans and tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable stock. Add the kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Finish and serve: Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove it from heat. Squeeze in lime juice and toss in fresh coriander for that bright, fresh finish. Serve with avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or some crusty bread.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The science behind Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli is all about balance and layering of flavors. Here’s what makes the key ingredients work:
- Beans: Kidney beans are packed with protein and fiber. They’re the heart of this dish, giving it the satisfying bulk and texture that meat would typically provide. The beans also absorb the spices and flavors from the sauce, making every bite rich.
- Tomatoes: The combo of fresh chopped tomatoes and tomato paste provides both acidity and umami, which makes the base of the chili so rich and complex. The acidity from the tomatoes cuts through the heaviness of the beans and oils, balancing everything out.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring depth, warmth, and smokiness. These spices create the signature flavor profile of a chili, and they develop over time as the dish simmers, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Avocado: While not strictly part of the original recipe, the creamy, buttery texture of avocado helps cool down the spice while adding a smooth contrast to the richness of the chili.
Expert Tips
- Texture matters: To avoid a mushy chili, make sure to use firm beans and vegetables. You can even use a mix of beans for variety, like black beans or chickpeas, depending on what you have in the pantry.
- Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili powder and add more to taste. You can also remove some seeds from the chili peppers if you’re using fresh ones.
- Slow simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the better the flavors develop. If you have the time, let it cook low and slow for an hour or more.
- Make it ahead: Chili is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. So, consider making a double batch and refrigerating for later.
- Add a smoky depth: A small amount of smoked chipotle in adobo sauce or smoked salt can deepen the smoky flavor of the chili without overwhelming it.
Recipe Variations
Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chili is very flexible. Here are a few fun twists you can try:
- Add extra veggies: Throw in sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even corn for added texture and sweetness.
- Spicy version: If you like it fiery, add fresh jalapeños or use a hotter chili powder blend.
- Top it with cheese: Crumbled feta or sharp cheddar cheese works great as a topping for that cheesy bite.
- Coconut milk twist: For a creamy version, stir in a can of coconut milk. It makes the chili smoother and adds a hint of sweetness.
Final Words
This vegetarian chili isn’t just about cutting out meat-it’s about celebrating the flavors and textures that vegetables and beans can bring to a dish. You can make it as mild or as fiery as you like, and it’s filling enough to satisfy even the biggest meat lovers. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so the cleanup is easy too.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, making it perfect for leftovers. It’s a dish you can make in big batches and serve for several days or freeze for later.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli?
The main ingredients are beans, vegetables like bell peppers and onions, tomatoes, garlic, and chili spices.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli Spicier?
Yes, you can add more chili powder, fresh chilies, or even a bit of hot sauce to increase the heat.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Vegetarian Chilli?
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to cook, depending on the size of your pot and the level of simmering.