Easy Vegetarian Chili On Rice
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili served over rice, featuring fresh vegetables and bold spices that appeal to both vegetarians and chili lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and green peppers; cook, stirring often, for 6 minutes.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, parsley, chili powder, cumin, and salt; bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring often.
- Add red kidney beans and cook for 5 minutes more.
- Add diced zucchini and cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding corn or bell peppers. If you want more heat, use fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you don't have Uncle Ben's rice, any long-grain rice or quinoa works well. For a quick prep, use canned beans and pre-chopped vegetables. This recipe is flexible, allowing for various substitutions based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Corn Custard Mexicana or is excellent alongside crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve with a side salad to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Vegetarian Chili On Rice contains roughly 42 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It's perfect for meal prep or for hosting gatherings.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This vegetarian chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also top the finished dish with hot sauce or serve with sliced fresh chili peppers. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).