If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and packed with nutritious veggies, the Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne is the perfect recipe for you. This vegetarian twist on the classic chili con carne is rich, smoky, and satisfying, proving that you don’t need meat for a bold and delicious meal. Plus, it’s a great option for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week!

What is Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne?

Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne is a plant-based version of the traditional chili con carne, but without sacrificing any of the robust flavors. It uses a variety of vegetables, beans, and spices to create a deeply flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering. It’s typically served with rice, tortilla chips, or even baked potatoes.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s high in fiber, vitamins, and protein.
Meat-free alternative: Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut down on meat without compromising taste.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Versatile: This can be served in a variety of ways—over rice, with tortilla chips, or as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Freezes well: Make a big batch and freeze portions for easy meals later.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

To create this vegetarian chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables.
Onions (2, finely chopped): Provides the base flavor.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.

Red bell pepper (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and color.
Green bell pepper (1, chopped): For an extra crunchy texture.
Carrot (1, diced): Adds a bit of natural sweetness.

Canned chopped tomatoes (2 x 400g): The base of the chili sauce.
Kidney beans (1 can, drained): Provides protein and texture.
Black beans (1 can, drained): Adds heartiness and protein.

Sweetcorn (1 cup): For a slight crunch and sweetness.
Tomato purée (2 tbsp): Thickens the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor.
Chili powder (2 tsp): For heat, adjust to taste.

Ground cumin (2 tsp): Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds a smoky depth to the chili.
Ground coriander (1 tsp): For a fresh, citrusy note.

Vegetable stock (300ml): Helps to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.
Fresh coriander (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Equipment Needed

Large pot or saucepan: For cooking the chili.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the ingredients.
Chopping board and knife: For preparing the vegetables.

Can opener: To open the cans of beans and tomatoes.

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

Sauté the vegetables – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and carrots, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the spices – Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavor.

Add the tomatoes and beans – Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, kidney beans, black beans, and sweetcorn. Stir everything together until well combined.
Pour in the stock – Add the vegetable stock to the mixture, bring to a simmer, and then reduce the heat. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Season and serve – Taste and season the chili with salt and black pepper to your liking. If desired, garnish with fresh coriander.

What Goes Well with Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne?

Steamed rice: The perfect base for soaking up all the rich chili sauce.
Tortilla chips: Add a satisfying crunch and great for scooping.
Baked potatoes: A filling option that complements the chili perfectly.

Grated cheese: Melted over the top adds extra creaminess.
Sour cream: A cool, tangy contrast to the spicy chili.
Avocado slices: Adds creaminess and freshness to the dish.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

Use a variety of beans: Mixing different types of beans, like kidney and black beans, adds more texture and flavor.
Adjust the heat: If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chilies.
Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead for the best flavor.

Add texture: For a meatier texture, consider adding some crumbled tofu or plant-based meat substitutes.
Balance the flavors: If your chili is too spicy, balance it with a pinch of sugar or a squeeze of lime.

Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

Add quinoa: Stir in cooked quinoa for extra protein and texture.

Swap beans: Use chickpeas or pinto beans instead of kidney or black beans.
Include lentils: Red or green lentils add a hearty, earthy flavor to the chili.
Go smoky: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.

Top with jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños add extra heat and zing.

Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

Refrigerate: Store the chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw properly: Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Best Practices to Reheat Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne

Stovetop: Reheat the chili on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

How Can I Make Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne Healthier?

Reduce the oil: Use just 1 tablespoon of olive oil or use a cooking spray to reduce fat.
Use low-sodium stock: Opt for low-sodium vegetable stock to control salt intake.
Add more veggies: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Skip the cheese: For a lower-calorie option, skip cheese toppings or use a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 320
Fat: 8g

Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 12g

FAQs

Can you freeze vegetarian chilli con carne?

Yes, vegetarian chilli con carne freezes very well. Let it cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

How can I make my vegetarian chilli thicker?

To thicken vegetarian chilli, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans in the pot to naturally thicken the sauce or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

What vegetables can I add to vegetarian chilli?

You can add a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or butternut squash to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of vegetarian chilli. These veggies add texture and complement the hearty beans.

Is vegetarian chilli con carne healthy?

Yes, vegetarian chilli con carne is generally a healthy meal. It’s high in fiber from beans and vegetables, low in fat, and a good source of plant-based protein. Using minimal oil and opting for low-sodium stock can make it even healthier.

Final Words

The Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Con Carne is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy the warmth and comfort this vegetarian chili brings!

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