I’m excited to share with you an all-time comfort dish of mine — an absolute banging veggie chilli, which is absolutely bursting with hearty flavors and textures. Ideally balanced, it’s a plant-based powerhouse that’s sure to please vegans and meat munchers alike who want to fit a little more veg into their diets.
My Jamie Oliver Veggie Chilli Recipe is perfect for batch cooking, great for serving a crowd, and a definite crowd-pleaser for family parties, weeknight dinners, or even Monday leftovers in a wrap!
Key Takeaways
- The veggie chilli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed over rice, in a burrito, or on a jacket potato, making it perfect for various mealtime options.
- Rich in flavor and texture, this plant-based recipe is designed to satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters alike, promoting a healthy, balanced diet.
- Ideal for batch cooking, this veggie chilli is great for serving larger groups and ensures delicious leftovers for easy meal prep during the week.
Why You’ll Love It
This veggie chilli really hits the right notes. It’s rich, warming and beautifully spiced — but not in an overwhelming way. It’s also really versatile: You could serve it over rice, or spoon it onto a jacket potato, or heave it into soft tortillas for a last-minute burrito. With loads of veg, beans for protein, and big seasonings, you’ll always feel both satisfied and well-fed.
Veggie Chilli Recipe by Jamie Oliver
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small red chilli, sliced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 red or yellow bell peppers, diced
- 1 medium courgette (zucchini), cubed
- 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- These two x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
- 400g x 2 tins mixed beans (kidney, black beans, pinto), drained and rinsed
- Coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 small bunch fresh coriander, chopped roughly
- Lime wedges, to serve
Instructions
- Soften the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt, and cook until softened. Add the garlic and fresh chilli, if using, and cook for another minute.
- Build the Base Flavour: Add the cumin, smoked paprika and dried oregano, allowing them to toast lightly for about 1 minute. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, an additional minute, to develop a richer, deeper flavor. Right here is the base of your Jamie Oliver Veggie Chilli Recipe.
- Add the Veg & Toms: Add your diced peppers, courgette and sweet potato, stirring to coat in the spiced mixture. Add the chopped tomatoes, plus a splash of water. Simmer and let it bubble gently away for 10-15 minutes.
Beans & Seasoning
- Stir in the mixed beans. For some great-tasting chilli, lower the heat to low, cover the pot and allow to simmer for a second 20-30 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the flavors have danced wonderfully together. Taste it, then add copious amounts of salt and pepper. Don’t be shy about adding a bit more spice or an extra pinch of herbs if you want.
Garnish & Serve
- Take off the heat, stir in most of the fresh coriander, and squeeze in some lime juice for brightness. Serve piping hot with your accompaniments of choice — fluffy rice, warm tortillas, a spoonful of dairy-free yoghurt, or some smashed avocado. Sprinkle with the remaining coriander leaves and let everyone dig in. Jamie Oliver Veggie Chilli Recipe That is going to Put a Smile on Everybody’s Face!
Nutritional Information per Serving
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Calories: ~400 kcal
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Protein: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 55g
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Sugars: 8g
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 2g
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Fiber: 15g
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Salt: 1.5g
👨🍳 [DID YOU KNOW?] Interesting Facts about Veggie Chilli
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Meat-Free, But Full of Flavor: This veggie chilli swaps the traditional meat for plant-based ingredients like kidney beans, black beans, and lentils, making it a hearty, protein-packed dish without compromising on flavor.
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Rich in Nutrients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this dish is rich in fiber, which is great for digestion. The tomatoes add a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support the immune system.
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Customizable Spice Levels: The level of heat in the dish is fully adjustable. You can increase the amount of chili to suit your taste, or reduce it for a milder version, making this chilli perfect for everyone.
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Ideal for Meal Prep: This dish holds up really well when stored, meaning it’s great for meal prep. The flavors deepen and become even more delicious the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Plant-Based Protein Power: With a variety of beans, lentils, and vegetables, this veggie chilli is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.
Types of Veggie Chilli
A variety of veggie chilli options cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are a few popular types to consider:
| Classic Chili | A base with tomatoes, beans, and spices. |
| White Chili | Uses white beans and a lighter broth. |
| Sweet Potato Chili | Incorporates sweet potatoes for added sweetness. |
| Spicy Chili | Includes extra peppers for those who love heat. |
| Smoky Chili | Features smoked paprika or chipotle for depth. |
Thou can easily find a chilli style that suits your palate.
Classic Ingredients
Some of the classic ingredients that define a hearty veggie chilli include kidney beans, black beans, bell peppers, onions, and crushed tomatoes. These ingredients create a solid foundation for rich flavors and satisfying textures, elevating your chilli experience.
Variations and Additions
Little tweaks can transform your veggie chilli into something extraordinary. You can incorporate various ingredients such as corn, zucchini, or even quinoa for enhanced texture and nutrition.
Plus, experimenting with different spices and herbs, like cumin or coriander, can give your dish a unique twist. You might also want to try adding avocado or cilantro for fresh garnish, enhancing both the flavor and presentation. These variations ensure your veggie chilli remains exciting and caters to your evolving taste buds!
Tips for the Perfect Chilli
While making your Jamie Oliver Veggie Chilli, you can elevate your dish with these crucial tips:
- Use fresh vegetables for optimal flavor.
- Incorporate a variety of beans for texture and protein.
- Don’t skimp on the seasonings; they’re key to a flavorful chilli.
- Let the chilli simmer to develop deeper flavors.
Recognizing these tips will ensure your chilli is a satisfying and comforting meal.
Spice Blends
If you want to add depth to your chilli, experiment with various spice blends. Combining different spices can completely transform your dish. Consider using smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of chipotle for a smoky kick. The goal is to find the right balance that enhances rather than overpowers the other ingredients.
Cooking Techniques
For a truly remarkable veggie chilli, you should explore different cooking techniques. Start by sautéing your vegetables to maximize the flavor through caramelization. Layering in the beans and spices during the cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Use a slow cooker for a more integrated taste, or a stovetop for quicker results.
A gentle simmer is crucial as it helps the flavours to develop fully, enhancing the overall experience of the dish. You can achieve a thicker consistency by letting it cook down a bit longer. Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go; this is how you create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Make sure you stir occasionally to prevent scorching and to encourage even cooking throughout.
Factors to Consider
To ensure the best experience with your veggie chilli, consider the following factors:
- Ingredient freshness: Use the freshest vegetables and spices for maximum flavor.
- Cooking method: Choose between stovetop or slow cooker, depending on your time constraints.
- Spice levels: Adjust the seasonings according to your family’s tolerance for heat.
- Serving options: Think about how you’d like to enjoy your chilli, whether in a bowl, on rice, or wrapped in tortillas.
After considering these factors, you’ll create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Dietary Preferences
Some guests may have specific dietary needs, so it’s beneficial to ensure that your veggie chilli meets various dietary preferences. It’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Additionally, you can customize your chilli to be gluten-free by substituting any ingredients that contain gluten, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy it without worry.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your mouth-watering veggie chilli is ready, think about the best ways to serve it. You can dish it out in generous bowls topped with your choice of fresh herbs or avocado slices. Pair it with rice, jacket potatoes, or soft tortillas for a delightful meal that’s both filling and versatile.
Understanding the best serving suggestions can elevate your veggie chilli experience. Consider complementing it with a side of cornbread or a simple salad to balance the flavors. Each of these options enhances the dish, providing texture and additional nutrients. Additionally, serving up your chilli with a variety of garnishes, such as sour cream alternatives or fiery chili flakes, allows your guests to tailor their meal to their taste, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.
Final Words
Hence, the Jamie Oliver Veggie Chilli Recipe stands as a hearty, flavor-packed plant-based delight that you can enjoy any day of the week. With its rich blend of spices, wholesome ingredients, and versatility, this dish guarantees satisfaction whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for delicious leftovers. You’ll find it an excellent addition to your cooking repertoire, offering you and your loved ones a nourishing and enjoyable meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly rewarding to taste.