Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind where you just want to curl up on the couch with something warm and comforting. Now, imagine that comfort in the form of a bowl of chili. But not just any chili – a spicy, vegan chili with a secret ingredient that'll blow your mind: peanut butter! I know, I know, it sounds a little crazy, but trust me on this one. It's a game-changer! I actually stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate a dish from a small vegan cafe I visited in Asheville, NC. The memory of that flavorful bowl stuck with me, leading to countless experiments in my own kitchen. The result? A chili that’s rich, savory, and unexpectedly delicious. It's a flavor explosion you won't believe!
This spicy vegan chili with peanut butter is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. The peanut butter adds a creamy richness and subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy chili flavors. It's like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it's packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. So, whether you're a vegan veteran or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe is for you. Let's dive in and make some magic!
Think of this recipe as a base – you can totally tweak it to fit what YOU love. Throw in some extra veggies, switch up the beans, or crank up the heat with more jalapeños. It's all about making it your own. Remember that time I added a handful of dark chocolate chips to a similar chili? Don't knock it 'til you try it! That hint of bitterness was such an amazing contrast to the spice. What does this mean for you? It means dinner is about to get a whole lot more interesting!
Required Equipments
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Blender or Food Processor (optional)
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Spicy Vegan Chili with Peanut Butter: Frequently Asked Questions
Spicy Vegan Chili with Peanut Butter
This spicy vegan chili with peanut butter is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cold evening. The addition of peanut butter adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the spicy chili flavors, creating a unique and satisfying meal.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Get Started: First things first, grab your largest pot or a Dutch oven. This will be your chili's cozy home for the next little while. Make sure it's nice and sturdy – we're building flavor here!
- Sauté the Aromatics: Pour the olive oil into the pot and set it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion. Cook it until it softens and turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. The smell alone is gonna make you smile.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step is so important – it awakens the flavors and adds depth to the chili.
- Add the Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer and Build Flavor: Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Stir in the peanut butter until it's fully dissolved into the chili. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt? A dash of chili powder?
- Optional: Blend for Creaminess: If you like a creamier chili, use an immersion blender to partially blend the chili. Alternatively, you can transfer about 1-2 cups of the chili to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot. Be careful when blending hot liquids! Let it cool slightly first or vent the blender to avoid splattering.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. And maybe a lime wedge for a lil’ zing?
- Enjoy!: That's it! Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of spicy vegan chili with peanut butter. It's perfect for a chilly evening or any time you're craving a hearty and flavorful meal.
📝 Notes
- For a smokier flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced.
- If you don't have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika with a pinch of smoked salt.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder to your preferred spice level.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 15g
Calcium: 150mg
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