Black-Eyed Pea Chili (Print View)

Hearty vegetarian chili with black-eyed peas, kidney beans, and vegetables in a spiced tomato broth.

# What You'll Need:

→ Legumes

01 - 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas or 1 (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed
02 - 1 cup cooked kidney beans or ½ (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 medium carrot, diced
08 - 1 celery stalk, diced
09 - 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
10 - 1 cup corn kernels, fresh, frozen, or canned

→ Liquids and Fats

11 - 2 cups vegetable broth
12 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Spices and Seasonings

14 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
15 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
16 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
18 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
19 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Optional Toppings

20 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
21 - Sour cream or plant-based yogurt
22 - Sliced jalapeños
23 - Shredded cheese or vegan cheese

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
02 - Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat the vegetables evenly.
04 - Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, and corn. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
05 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

# Expert Insights:

01 -
  • The black-eyed peas provide a distinct, satisfying texture compared to traditional chili.
  • It is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
  • A one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup while delivering deep, slow-simmered flavor.
  • Loaded with a variety of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and corn for a nutrient boost.
02 -
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to tailor the heat level to your personal preference.
  • If you are sensitive to gluten or soy, be sure to check the labels of your vegetable broth and canned ingredients.
  • Sauté the vegetables thoroughly in the first step to build a deep flavor base for the entire dish.
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