Vegan Three Bean Chili

by Kaylie Grace on Nov 11, 2019 (updated May 31, 2020)

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This vegan three bean chili is full of flavor and packed with plant-based protein. Enjoy a bowl filled with kidney beans, black beans, garbanzo beans, fresh vegetables, and delicious spices. It’s the perfect dinner for a cozy evening!

two white ceramic bowls filled with vegan three bean chili alongside a wooden spoon, bowl of jalapeños, and bowl of chili powder

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cozy, comforting bowl of homemade chili during the fall and winter season. In fact, as a child, I thought we referred to this dish as “chili” because it tasted great during chilly weather. Ha!

Today I’m bringing you my favorite vegan three bean chili. It’s stuffed with healthy, wholesome, gluten-free ingredients and loaded with flavor. The recipe is similar to my vegan sweet potato black bean chili, but contains even more plant-based protein due to the three beans.

So, what are we waiting for? It’s time to cuddle up by the fireplace and enjoy this super flavorful, hearty, and nutrient-packed meal!

two white ceramic bowls filled with vegan three bean chili next to a wooden spoon

What ingredients are in vegan three bean chili?

This vegan three bean chili is centered around beans which are full of fiber, protein, and offer several health benefits. Additionally, this healthy recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and spices. See the full ingredient list below:

Kidney beans
Black beans
Garbanzo beans
Carrots
Red bell pepper
Green bell pepper
Diced tomatoes
Vegetable broth
Onion
Garlic
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Ground cumin
Cayenne pepper

bowl of vegan three bean chili in a white ceramic bowl alongside a wooden fork and small bowl of jalapeños

How to make Vegan Three Bean Chili

For the full recipe, scroll down to view the recipe card below.

Chili is great for many reasons, but first on the list is that it’s SO easy to make! This recipe requires minimal effort and is made within one pot in just one hour.

Begin by preparing the ingredients; dice onion, mince garlic, chop bell peppers, peel and chop carrots, and rinse/drain beans.

Next, heat a stockpot on medium-low temperature. Add oil, onions, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the bell peppers and carrots. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Then, add the rest of the ingredients. This includes the rinsed and drained kidney beans, black beans, garbanzo beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, vegetable broth, and spices. Mix everything to thoroughly combine.

Bring the ingredients to a rapid boil on high heat. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The chili may require more or less time depending on the type of pot and temperature of the stove. You’ll know it’s finished cooking when the chopped carrots are soft but intact. Test this by pricking them with a fork.

Lastly, serve the vegan three bean chili with your favorite toppings and corn tortilla chips.

a distressed white wooden board topped with a bowl of three bean chili, corn tortilla chips, a wooden spoon, and sliced jalapeño peppers

Kaylie’s Tips:

What are good chili toppings? For starters, I absolutely love pairing this vegan three bean chili with my cashew sour cream. Oftentimes, I also add sliced jalapeño, avocado, and fresh cilantro. Lime wedges, shredded vegan cheese, and corn tortilla strips are great choices, too.
How to store chili leftovers? Chili is a perfect choice for meal prep because, typically, it tastes even better as leftovers. If you plan to store leftover chili, first allow it to cool down for ~20 minutes. Then, transfer the chili to an airtight container. It should keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
I always use no salt added beans. If you happen to purchase canned beans that do contain salt, it may be unnecessary to add extra salt to your chili. I recommend taste testing your chili before adding any additional salt.

two bowls of chili on a white surface alongside corn tortilla chips, chili powder, cilantro, and sliced jalapeño peppers

More healthy vegan dinner recipes

If you try this Vegan Three Bean Chili, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! Ready for more? Subscribe to my newsletter or follow along on Instagram and YouTube!