Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 6-8
This Comforting Vegan Chili Mac is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Combining the best of chili and macaroni, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) of corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup of vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Macaroni:
- 12 ounces of elbow macaroni (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup of vegan cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chili
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Peppers: Stir in the minced garlic, diced red and green bell peppers, and minced jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, and corn kernels. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
- Boil the Pasta: While the chili is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Chili and Macaroni
- Mix Together: Once the chili is ready, add the cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded vegan cheddar cheese and nutritional yeast until melted and well incorporated.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the Chili Mac: Divide the vegan chili mac among serving bowls.
- Garnish: Garnish each serving with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Serve hot.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this comforting and flavorful vegan chili mac!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Protein: Add some cooked lentils or crumbled tofu for added protein.
- Different Beans: Substitute or add other beans like pinto beans or chickpeas for variety.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of jalapeño or cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Creamy Texture: Add a dollop of vegan sour cream on top before serving.
Nutritional Information:
This vegan chili mac is rich in protein and fiber from the beans and pasta. The combination of vegetables and spices adds a burst of flavor, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a delicious accompaniment.
- For Meal Prep: Prepare the chili and macaroni ahead of time and combine just before serving for a quick and easy dinner.
This Comforting Vegan Chili Mac is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of chili and macaroni creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy this delightful chili mac with family and friends. Happy cooking!
