Embrace the delightful taste and nutritional benefits of a hearty vegetable chili. This slow cooker recipe is a simple and delightful option for those seeking a healthy, vegetarian meal. Rich in fiber and packed with a variety of vegetables, it proves that a chili doesn't need meat to be flavorful and satisfying.
While most ingredients can be easily found in any kitchen, there are a few that you may need to find at your local supermarket. Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, can be found in the canned goods section. Green chile peppers, which add a spicy kick to the chili, are usually located in the international food aisle.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili Ingredients
whole peeled tomatoes: Adds a rich and tangy base to the chili.
garbanzo beans: Provides a good source of protein and fiber.
zucchini: Adds a light, slightly sweet flavor and texture.
onion: Provides a sweet and savory taste that's essential for chili.
carrots: Adds a sweet crunch and a good source of beta carotene.
celery stalks: Provides a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor.
red bell pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
green bell pepper: Offers a slightly bitter flavor and a nice crunch.
chili powder: Provides the spicy flavor associating with chili dishes.
green chile peppers: Contributes an extra spicy kick to the dish.
garlic: Adds a pungent, warming flavor that's essential for any chili.
oregano: Gives a subtle, earthy flavor.
ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor and aroma.
salt: Enhances the flavor of all other ingredients.
One reader, Conway Bowers says:
This slow cooker vegetable chili recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the veggies maintain their perfect texture. It's a lifesaver on busy days, and the aroma is simply irresistible. I love how versatile and nutritious it is. A definite must-try for all chili lovers!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
How to prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the zucchini, onion, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
How to cook in a slow cooker: Add all the ingredients into the slow cooker, cover it, and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, chili powder, or other spices according to your preference.
How to serve: Ladle the vegetable chili into bowls and serve it with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.
How To Make Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
This slow cooker vegetable chili is filled with zesty and hearty ingredients including fresh veggies and flavorful spices then garnished with sour cream.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 28ozwhole peeled tomatoes with juice,1 can
- 15ozgarbanzo beans,drained, 1 can
- 2zucchini,thinly sliced
- 1onion,chopped
- 2carrots,sliced
- 2celery stalks,sliced
- 1red bell pepper,chopped
- 1green bell pepper,chopped
- ⅓cupchili powder
- 4ozgreen chile peppers,chopped, 1 can
- 2cloves garlic,minced
- 1tbsporegano,dried
- 2tspground cumin
- 1tspsalt
Instructions
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In a slow cooker, combine the tomatoes, garbanzo beans, zucchini, onion, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, chili powder, green chile peppers, garlic, oregano, cumin, and salt.
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Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Nutrition
- Calories: 273.53kcal
- Fat: 4.67g
- Saturated Fat: 0.57g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.03g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.11g
- Carbohydrates: 48.27g
- Fiber: 11.88g
- Sugar: 13.18g
- Protein: 14.16g
- Sodium: 487.79mg
- Calcium: 95.18mg
- Potassium: 1065.96mg
- Iron: 4.52mg
- Vitamin A: 290.23µg
- Vitamin C: 78.23mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing Flavors in Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
To enhance the flavors of your slow cooker vegetable chili, consider roasting your vegetables like zucchini, onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers before adding them to the slow cooker. This will add a depth of flavor and a slight smoky note to your chili. Additionally, if you have time, sauté your garlic and spices like chili powder, oregano, and cumin in a little oil before adding to the slow cooker. This process, known as blooming, helps to release the full aroma and flavor of these ingredients, making your chili even more delicious.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Vegetable Chili in a Slow Cooker
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and spices the night before, so you can quickly assemble the chili in the morning.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned garbanzo beans instead of dried ones to save time on soaking and cooking.
Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent scrubbing the pot.
Adjust cooking time: If you're short on time, cook the chili on high for 3-4 hours instead of the low setting for 6-8 hours.
One-pot meal: Make it a one-pot meal by serving the chili with a side of rice or quinoa cooked in a rice cooker for a convenient and time-saving dinner option.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili Recipe
whole peeled tomatoes with juice - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for whole peeled tomatoes. They will break down during the cooking process and provide a similar texture to the dish.
garbanzo beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for garbanzo beans, providing a creamy texture and a slightly different flavor to the chili.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, as it has a similar texture and mild flavor that will complement the other ingredients in the chili.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the chili.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for carrots, adding a natural sweetness and a hearty texture to the chili.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel: Fennel can be used as a substitute for celery, providing a similar crunch and a hint of anise flavor to the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the chili.
green bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, adding a mild heat and earthy flavor to the chili.
chili powder - Substitute with ancho chili powder: Ancho chili powder can be used as a substitute for regular chili powder, providing a slightly smokier and milder heat to the dish.
green chile peppers - Substitute with jalapeño peppers: Jalapeño peppers can be used as a substitute for green chile peppers, adding a similar level of heat and a bright, fresh flavor to the chili.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a slightly earthy and floral flavor to the chili.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, offering a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a substitute for salt, providing a savory and umami-rich flavor to the chili.
Presentation Tips for Serving Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker vegetable chili, consider using a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. This will allow the ingredients to be displayed beautifully and make the dish visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the chili just before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but also infuse the dish with a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small handful of crispy tortilla strips or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, to provide contrast to the soft texture of the chili.
Artful drizzle: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of vegan sour cream or a swirl of avocado cream on top of the chili to add a touch of elegance and creaminess to the dish.
Accompany with a side: Serve the slow cooker vegetable chili with a side of warm, crusty bread or a fluffy, freshly baked cornbread muffin to complement the flavors and provide a delightful contrast in textures.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek, modern serving utensils that complement the overall presentation of the dish and add a touch of sophistication to the dining experience.
Consider the placement of ingredients: Arrange the vegetables in an artful and intentional manner, ensuring that each component of the chili is thoughtfully placed to create a visually appealing composition on the plate.
Add a touch of heat: For a final touch, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the dish just before serving to add a hint of smokiness and a pop of color to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Vegetable Chili in a Slow Cooker
- Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance that is used for simmering, which makes it perfect for slow-cooking dishes like chili.
- Can opener: A can opener is essential for opening the cans of whole peeled tomatoes and garbanzo beans.
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for chopping the vegetables such as zucchini, onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure out the chili powder, oregano, cumin, and salt.
- Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to easily crush and mince the garlic cloves.
- Spatula: A spatula is useful for stirring the ingredients in the slow cooker.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
Allow the vegetable chili to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially spoiling the chili.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
When reheating refrigerated chili, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating throughout.
For longer storage, freeze the chili in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. This allows you to thaw only what you need for future meals, reducing food waste.
To freeze, pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
When ready to use frozen chili, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until it's heated through.
If the thawed or reheated chili appears too thick, add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency. Adjust the seasonings as needed, as freezing can sometimes alter the flavor profile slightly.
For best quality, consume frozen chili within 3 months. While it will remain safe to eat beyond this point, the texture and flavor may begin to deteriorate over time.
How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
Stovetop method: Transfer the leftover chili to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating. If the chili appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: Place the desired portion of leftover chili in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chili is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: If you have a large amount of leftover chili, you can reheat it in your slow cooker. Transfer the chili to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let it warm for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is convenient if you want to keep the chili warm for an extended period.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chili to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili is heated through. Stir the chili halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Freezer reheat method: If you have frozen leftover chili, you can reheat it directly from the freezer. Transfer the frozen chili to a pot and reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently. As the chili thaws and heats up, you may need to add a little vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency. Continue heating until the chili is warmed through and reaches the desired temperature.
Random Fact About Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
Slow cooker vegetable chili is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's a healthy and delicious way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet.
Is Making Vegetable Chili in a Slow Cooker Economical for Home Cooking?
The slow cooker vegetable chili recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With a variety of vegetables and beans, it offers a nutritious and budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. The versatility and simplicity of this recipe make it a practical and affordable meal option. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is This Chili Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker vegetable chili recipe is a nutritious and wholesome meal packed with fiber-rich vegetables and protein-packed garbanzo beans. The combination of tomatoes, zucchini, onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers provides a wide array of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. The use of herbs and spices like chili powder, oregano, cumin, and garlic adds depth of flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or unhealthy fats.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to enhance its nutritional value further:
- Consider reducing the amount of chili powder to lower the sodium content, as some chili powders contain added salt
- Add more leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, to increase the vitamin and mineral content
- Include a variety of beans, like black beans or kidney beans, to provide a wider range of nutrients and fiber
- Serve the chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of low-fat cheese to add calcium and protein without significantly increasing the calorie count
Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili Recipe
This slow cooker vegetable chili recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of fresh vegetables, garbanzo beans, and flavorful spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a comforting and aromatic chili. The use of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture. This recipe is a great option for a meatless meal and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious chili with your loved ones!
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Vegetarian Chili Recipes to Try
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili
Why trust this Slow Cooker Vegetable Chili Recipe:
This recipe offers a hearty and flavorful vegetable chili that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a harmonious blend of garbanzo beans, zucchini, bell peppers, and a medley of aromatic spices like chili powder and cumin, it promises a satisfying meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and comforting dish. Trust the combination of wholesome ingredients and traditional cooking methods to deliver a delicious and nourishing chili that will surely become a household favorite.
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