Spice Up Your Meatless Monday with this Vegetarian Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Stephane Janett
- Nov 4, 2022
- 8 min read
Updated: Jan 28, 2024
Now lovelies, who doesn't hanker for a smoking-hot Mexican dish on those nippy nights, or a mariachi-worthy Mexican banquet to share with your mates and relatives, come rain or shine! Now, brace yourselves, because this Chili con Vegetarian Carne recipe is the genuine article. Merely pondering it has my taste buds doing a tango! It's so tantalising, you'll be rumba-ing with each mouthful! Prepare for a flavour carnival that'll kindle your spirit and have you pining for an encore. Olé, sweethearts! - Ready to stir up a storm with Chili con Vegetarian Carne? Let's get cooking!
Time: 40 minutes | Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion (diced)
4 garlic cloves (crushed)
1 yellow and 1 red capsicum (diced) - also known as bell peppers
6 mushrooms (diced)
460g plant-based mince (we used Quorn mince)
1x 400g tinned crushed tomatoes
1x 400g tinned kidney beans
1x 250g tinned sweet corn
1 vegetable stock cube (crushed using a fork to make the powder)
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder (mild or hot)
1 chili (diced) - optional
2 teaspoons paprika powder
1 tablespoon concentrated tomato paste
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
Sour cream, to serve
1 cup rice (we used wild rice, but feel free to cook your preferred rice type)
* If you're a meat eater, you can substitute the vegan mince for beef mince!
HOT TIP: also sprinkle with any grated cheese as an option!
HOW TO MAKE IT
The Chili con Vegetarian Carne:
1. On medium heat, let the onions sashay in oil in a pan for a minute, add garlic, and cook till they're as soft as a soap opera starlet's heart.
2. Toss in the vegan mince, and let it sizzle for a spicy 5-minute number.
3. Bring on the mushrooms, and let them join the pan dance for about 5 minutes.
4. Now, let the capsicum take a spin on the pan dancefloor for a bit.
5. Stir in the rosemary, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cumin powder. Give it a good mix and let the flavours boogie for 5 minutes.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes and kidney beans, and let them crash the cook-up party.
7. Mix in the sweet corn, and add a bit of chopped chili if you're feeling extra spicy.
8. Toss in the sugar, vegetable stock powder, tomato paste, and a cup of water. Give it a whirl, let it simmer for 25 mins on medium heat, stirring occasionally, and get your rice on the go!
The Rice:
1. Swish and rinse 1 cup of rice to get rid of any drama-queen starch.
2. Pop the rice together with 2 cups of water into a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Zap it in the microwave for 22 minutes at 600 watts, and you've got yourself steamy, delightful rice!
~ Serve up your Chili con Vegetarian Carne on a fluffy bed of rice, add a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Now, let's tuck in, Olé!
Bon appétit bébé!
THE STORY OF CHILI CON CARNE
Ah, the origins of Chili con Carne are as hotly debated as the spiciness of the dish itself! While the exact origins of Chili con Carne are uncertain, it is widely believed to have originated in Mexico, as well as specifically in the northern regions of Texas and bordering areas in the United States in the 19th century.
Legend has it that cowboys and cattle drivers would make hearty stews using inexpensive cuts of beef, chili peppers, and other available ingredients, which they would cook over an open flame on the range during long cattle drives. Over time, this dish evolved into what is now known as Chili con Carne, which translates to "chili with meat" in Spanish.
Today, Chili con Carne has become a beloved dish in many cultures, with various regional variations and interpretations. From traditional Texan-style chili with chunks of meat to meatless vegetarian versions, Chili con Carne has become a culinary icon known for its bold flavors, comforting warmth, and versatility. It's a dish that has traveled far and wide, capturing the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the world. So, whether you like it mild or fiery hot, Chili con Carne is a culinary creation that has its roots in the wild west and has become a beloved dish with a flavor-packed history! Yeehaw!
BENEFITS OF THIS MEAL
Indulging in Chili con Vegetarian Carne comes with a whole lot of benefits, my friends! Just check out these plant-powered perks:
Meatless Marvel: With plant-based mince taking the center stage, you'll be treating yourself to a protein-packed dish that's easy on the environment and the animals. Veggie power, activated!
Veggie-Vibrant: Red capsicum, mushrooms, kidney beans, and sweet corn add a rainbow of colors to your bowl, making it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Who said veggies were boring?
Flavor Fiesta: Chili powder, paprika, cumin, rosemary, salt, and pepper team up to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue with every spoonful. Get ready for a taste explosion!
No Tears Here: Onion and garlic lend their aromatic goodness to the mix, without any of the chopping tears. So you can enjoy the flavors without the drama!
Hearty & Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this veggie chili is a wholesome meal that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. It's comfort food that loves your body back!
So go ahead, whip up a batch of Chili con Vegetarian Carne and let your taste buds go wild while enjoying all the benefits of this plant-powered fiesta in a bowl! Arriba!
A FICTIONAL STORY BY THE CHEF!
Chili con Vegetarian Carne: Frida's Heroic Stand for Animals and Mother Earth
Once upon a time in the bustling city of Mexico City, there lived a remarkable woman named Frida Libertad. She was known for her unwavering passion for animals and her deep concern for the environment. Frida was determined to make a difference in her country and protect the beautiful creatures that roamed the earth. She had a heart of gold and a fierce determination to leave a positive impact on the world.
One day, as Frida was experimenting in her humble kitchen, she had a brilliant idea. She decided to create a dish that would not only tantalize taste buds but also make a powerful political statement. With her apron on and her cooking utensils in hand, Frida got to work.
She gathered the freshest ingredients - olive oil, finely chopped onion and garlic, vibrant yellow and red capsicums, earthy mushrooms, and plant-based mince. She skillfully sautéed them together in a pan, letting the aroma fill her kitchen, and her heart with joy. She then added crushed tomatoes, hearty kidney beans, sweet corn, and a flavorful vegetable broth. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she sprinkled in the perfect amount of cumin, chili powder, fresh chili, paprika, and rosemary. She added a touch of brown sugar, salt, and pepper to balance the flavors. The fragrance of her creation was irresistible, and she knew she was onto something truly special.
But it was her bold decision to use plant-based mince instead of real meat that set her dish apart. Frida believed that by choosing plant-based ingredients, she could make a powerful statement about protecting animals and preserving our precious Mother Earth. She wanted to show the world that delicious and satisfying meals could be created without harming animals or the environment.
As the simmering chili reached its peak of flavor, Frida carefully ladled it onto a bed of wholesome wild rice. She then garnished it with a generous sprinkle of mixed grated cheese and a dollop of tangy sour cream. The masterpiece was complete - Chili con Vegetarian Carne made with love, compassion, and a vision for a better world.
Frida proudly unveiled her creation to her friends and family, and their taste buds were instantly transported to flavor heaven. They couldn't get enough of the rich and robust flavors of her chili, bursting with the goodness of plant-based ingredients. They were amazed by how Frida had turned a simple dish into a powerful statement for animal rights and environmental conservation.
Word of Frida's culinary masterpiece quickly spread far and wide. Her Chili con Vegetarian Carne became a sensation not only in Mexico City but across the world. People marveled at her creativity and her unwavering commitment to her cause. She became an inspiration to many, a beacon of hope for those who shared her beliefs.
Frida's impact on the plant-based world and her dedication to protecting animals and the environment led to the creation of a special slogan in her honor. The slogan was printed on t-shirts and merchandise, spreading her powerful message far and wide. It read, "Frida's Veggie Chili - Saving Animals, One Delicious Bite at a Time!". The slogan became a rallying cry for those who were inspired by Frida's courage, passion, and unwavering determination to create positive change.
Today, Frida's Chili con Vegetarian Carne continues to be a beloved dish that is enjoyed by people all around the world. It serves as a reminder that one person, with a heart full of compassion and a vision for a better world, can truly make a difference. Frida's legacy lives on through her delicious creation and her powerful slogan, inspiring generations to come to protect our furry friends and Mother Earth. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and unwavering commitment to a cause.
Frida's impact extended beyond her culinary creation. She became a vocal advocate for animal rights and environmental conservation, using her voice and her dish as a platform for change. She spoke at rallies, engaged in grassroots activism, and used social media to spread awareness about the importance of choosing plant-based options and protecting animals from being eaten.
Her relentless efforts did not go unnoticed, and she gained a massive following of like-minded individuals who were inspired by her passion and dedication. Her slogan, "Frida's Veggie Chili - Saving Animals, One Delicious Bite at a Time!" became a symbol of her courageous stand for animal rights and environmental protection.
Frida's impact on the world continued to grow, and her fame spread far and wide. She was invited to speak at international conferences, received numerous accolades for her advocacy work, and even appeared on popular talk shows to share her story and inspire others. Her chili became a staple in restaurants and households around the globe, with many people embracing the deliciousness of plant-based cuisine and the importance of protecting animals and the environment.
But amidst all the fame and recognition, Frida Libertad remained true to her humble roots. She continued to cook her chili with love and care in her small kitchen in her little blue house in Mexico City, always staying connected to her mission of making a positive impact on the world. Her heart swelled with pride as she saw the ripple effect of her actions, knowing that her dish had become a powerful symbol of change.
Frida's story became a part of history, a tale of a courageous woman who dared to challenge the norms and make a difference in the world. Her legacy lived on, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps and protect animals and the environment with compassion and determination.
And so, the world came to know and love Frida Libertad - the passionate activist, the innovative chef, and the creator of Chili con Vegetarian Carne. Her slogan became a mantra for change, a rallying cry for those who believed in the power of plant-based cuisine and protecting our furry friends. With her unwavering spirit, Frida proved that one person's actions can create a ripple effect of change that can impact the world for generations to come.
As the years passed, her slogan continued to be printed on t-shirts and merchandise, spreading her message far and wide. It became a symbol of hope, a reminder that individuals have the power to make a difference and that every bite we take can contribute to a better world. Frida's legacy lived on through her dish, her advocacy, and her slogan, inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps and create positive change in their own ways.
Frida Libertad's story is a tale of heroism, humor, and heartfelt activism. Her creation of Chili con Vegetarian Carne with plant-based mince made a political statement that resonated with people around the world. Her dedication to protecting animals and the environment, and her unwavering commitment to her cause, earned her fame, recognition, and a special place in history. Her slogan, "Frida's Veggie Chili - Saving Animals, One Delicious Bite at a Time!" became a powerful symbol of her impact and continues to inspire others to make a difference in the world. With her culinary innovation, her passion for animals, and her indomitable spirit, Frida's legacy as a hero and trailblazer will always be remembered and cherished. And her dish, Chili con Vegetarian Carne, will forever remain a delicious reminder of her extraordinary story and her unwavering dedication to protecting our furry friends and mother earth.
RATE IT!
We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe, leave a comment below!
Comments