Vegetarian Chili II
Vegetarian Chili II Recipe - Made with Tomatoes, Beans, Onion, and Green Bell Pepper
Introduction
Vegetarian Chili II is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is a satisfying and nutritious meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
History
Vegetarian chili has been a popular dish for many years, with variations popping up in different regions and cultures. This particular recipe puts a twist on the classic chili by adding macaroni noodles for an extra layer of comfort and texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g) stewed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) pinto beans with liquid
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (7 oz / 198 g) elbow macaroni
- 0.25 cup (0.5 stick) sliced butter
- cheddar cheese
How to prepare
- Combine tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, onion, bell pepper, chili powder, and water in a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. (Can cook on high for 2 hours).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain, and stir butter into hot noodles.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the chili.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
Variations
- Add corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Use different types of beans such as black beans or chickpeas.
- Top with avocado slices or sour cream for added creaminess.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeno.
- To save time, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes.
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Vegetarian Chili II with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking the chili allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and robust taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Make Ahead Tips
Vegetarian Chili II can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Vegetarian Chili II in individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Vegetarian Chili II with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Vegetarian Chili II contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Vegetarian Chili II contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Vegetarian Chili II contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Vegetarian Chili II contains approximately 12 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Vegetarian Chili II is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and gluten (elbow macaroni).
Summary
Vegetarian Chili II is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Vegetarian Chili II is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the hills of Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was known throughout the village for her incredible cooking skills. People would come from near and far just to taste her delicious dishes.
One day, while I was helping Nonna Maria in the kitchen, she pulled out a worn and tattered cookbook that had been passed down through generations of our family. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes lit up when she landed on a recipe for Vegetarian Chili II. She explained to me that this recipe was one that had been shared with her by a traveler who had come through the village many years ago.
Intrigued by the idea of a vegetarian dish that could rival the hearty meat-based meals that were so common in our village, I eagerly helped Nonna Maria gather the ingredients and get to work. The recipe called for a variety of vegetables – bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, corn, and beans – all of which we grew in our own garden. Nonna Maria showed me how to chop and prepare the vegetables with care, emphasizing the importance of taking the time to do things right.
As the chili simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, Nonna Maria shared with me the story of how she had come to learn this recipe. She told me about the traveler who had passed through the village, a young woman with a kind heart and a passion for cooking. The woman had stayed with Nonna Maria's family for a few days, sharing stories and recipes from her travels.
One evening, as they sat around the fire, the traveler had prepared a pot of Vegetarian Chili II for the family to enjoy. Nonna Maria had been skeptical at first – she was used to hearty meat-based meals, and the idea of a vegetarian dish didn't appeal to her. But one taste of the chili had changed her mind. The flavors were bold and complex, the perfect balance of spicy and savory. Nonna Maria had asked the traveler for the recipe, and she had been making it ever since.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Vegetarian Chili II. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a symphony of tastes and textures. I couldn't believe that something so simple could be so delicious. Nonna Maria smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. She knew that I had discovered something special that day.
Since that day, I have continued to make Vegetarian Chili II for my family and friends, passing down the recipe and the story behind it just as Nonna Maria did for me. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that special day in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning not just a recipe, but a lesson in tradition, family, and the power of good food to bring people together.
As I sit here now, writing this story down for future generations to read, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and the recipes that have been passed down through my family. I hope that whoever reads this will be inspired to try their hand at making Vegetarian Chili II, and to create their own cherished memories in the kitchen with their loved ones. After all, as Nonna Maria always said, the best recipes are the ones that bring people together.
Categories
| American Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Chili Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Kidney Bean Recipes | Macaroni Recipes | Pinto Bean Recipes | Tomato Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |