Vegetarian Black Bean Chilli
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This hearty vegetarian black bean chilli is a vibrant, plant-based twist on a classic comfort food favourite. Packed with protein-rich black beans, sweet red peppers and a warming blend of aromatic spices including cumin and oregano, it offers a deep, smoky flavour that even dedicated meat-eaters will appreciate. The addition of reserved bean liquid creates a beautifully thick, indulgent texture that makes every spoonful feel satisfying and wholesome.
An ideal choice for a quick midweek dinner or batch-cooking for the week ahead, this versatile dish is naturally gluten-free and easily adapted for vegans by omitting the dairy toppings. Serve it in deep bowls topped with cooling soured cream, zesty coriander and spring onions for a balanced meal. It pairs perfectly with fluffy long-grain rice or crunchy corn tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing family feast.
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Ingredients for Vegetarian Black Bean Chilli
60ml olive oil
475ml chopped onions
275g coarsely chopped red peppers (about 2 medium)
6 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tablespoons chilli powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
3 15- to 450g cans black beans, drained, 120ml liquid reserved
1 450g can tomato sauce
Chopped fresh coriander
Soured cream
Grated MontereyJack cheese
Chopped spring onions
How to make Vegetarian Black Bean Chilli
Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, peppers, and garlic; sauté until onions soften, about 10 minutes. Mix in chilli powder, oregano, cumin, and cayenne; stir 2 minutes. Mix in beans, 120ml reserved bean liquid, and tomato sauce. Bring chilli to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until flavours blend and chilli thickens, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Ladle chilli into bowls. Pass chopped coriander, soured cream, grated cheese, and spring onions separately.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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