Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Recipe

This rich, hearty Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Recipe is made with mixed beans, chopped tomatoes, and a square of dark chocolate, and is ready in 60 minutes. The dark chocolate melts into the simmering tomato sauce, creating an incredibly glossy and deeply savoury finish. I make this every week for meat-free Mondays.

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Why This Classic Works

I used to think a meat-free chilli would always taste thin and lack depth. The secret here is letting the spices toast properly before adding the wet ingredients.

Adding that single square of dark chocolate at the very end completely changes the dish. It cuts the acidity of the tomatoes and adds an earthy richness I never expected.

Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 tsp hot chilli powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
• 400g tin kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 400g tin black beans, drained and rinsed
• 200ml vegetable stock
• 15g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How To Make Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Recipe

1. Soften the veg: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat, then fry the onion and pepper for 5 minutes until soft.
2. Add the aromatics: Stir in the garlic, chilli powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Build the sauce: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock, stirring well to combine everything.
4. Simmer the beans: Add the kidney beans and black beans, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Melt the chocolate: Turn off the heat, drop in the dark chocolate, and stir continuously until completely melted and glossy.

Recipe Tips

• Toast the spices: Cooking the spices for a full minute before adding tomatoes releases their essential oils.
• Don’t skip the chocolate: It is crucial for giving the sauce a rich depth without adding sweetness.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chilli to sit for 10 minutes off the heat helps the flavours meld together perfectly.

What To Serve With Vegetarian Chilli

Fluffy basmati rice and a dollop of soured cream are classic choices that balance the heat. A side of crisp tortilla chips and fresh guacamole works incredibly well for dipping.

How To Store

Allow the chilli to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to four days and freezes beautifully for up to three months.

FAQs

Can I use different beans?

Yes, pinto beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas work well in this recipe.

Is this chilli very spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the chilli powder, but you can halve the amount for a milder flavour.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Fry the onions and spices first, then slow cook everything on low for 6 hours.

Do I have to use dark chocolate?

You can leave it out, but it provides a depth of flavour that is hard to replace.

Nutrition

• Calories: 345 kcal
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 52g
• Protein: 16g

Try More Recipes:

• Hairy Bikers Cullen Skink Recipe
• Hairy Bikers Christmas Pudding Vodka Recipe
• Hairy Bikers Halloumi Melon Salad Recipe