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Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

This vegetarian chili is made by simmering a mixture of beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes in a slow cooker, allowing flavors to meld over low heat. The dish results in a hearty, thick, and rustic chili with a rich, smoky aroma and tender vegetables and beans throughout.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups mixed beans, drained and rinsed such as black beans and kidney beans
  • 1 large bell pepper red or yellow, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces, with juice
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Begin by chopping the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces. This helps them cook uniformly and meld flavors beautifully.
  2. Heat the slow cooker and add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper until they soften and become fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika to the vegetables and cook for another minute until aromatic. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine all the ingredients. This creates a flavorful base for the chili.
  5. Add the drained beans to the mixture, stirring gently so they are evenly distributed without breaking apart.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to low and let it simmer for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to become tender.
  7. After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the lid and give the chili a gentle stir. Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
  8. Serve the hearty vegetarian chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.