Krystal'S Vegetable Chili
A hearty vegetable chili packed with zucchini, carrots, and beans, flavored with basil and chili powder, perfect for satisfying a crowd with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 c. chopped zucchini ⓘ
- 1 c. diced carrots ⓘ
- 1 c. chopped celery ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can pinto beans ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can tomatoes
- 2 c. chopped fresh tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 small can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 tsp. sweet basil ⓘ
- 1 tsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot and sauté chopped zucchini, carrots, celery, and green pepper until tender.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings including basil, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Simmer the mixture slowly for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add pinto beans and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce. If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños. For a vegetarian alternative, replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter. This dish can also be enhanced with a sprinkle of cheese yummies for extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, optionally topped with grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, consider finishing with apple and date cookies for a sweet ending.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave, covering the bowl with a microwave-safe lid, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Krystal'S Vegetable Chili contains roughly 524 calories, with 20g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (140% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2099mg per serving (91% 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 use other types of beans in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas to suit your preference. Just ensure that the beans are cooked or canned for easier preparation.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This vegetable chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. For something sweet afterward, try making snowy chocolate bites to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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).