Dinner

Vegetable & Bean Chilli Recipe

BySophie Carsel January 12, 2026January 12, 2026

Introduction

This vibrant vegetable and bean chilli is a hearty, nutritious meal packed with flavor and plant-based protein. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and easy enough for weeknight cooking. Enjoy the rich combination of spices, vegetables, and beans in every spoonful.

The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful vegetable chili that has three visible layers: the bottom layer is thick and chunky with dark red kidney beans, yellow corn, and diced tomatoes; the middle layer has pieces of green zucchini and white beans mixed in; the top layer includes more bright yellow corn and small chunks of tomato, giving a fresh and hearty look. The bowl is placed on a white tray with a pale yellow cloth underneath, and a silver spoon lies next to it on the tray. The background is a white marbled surface with a sprig of green cilantro and a glass of water blurred out behind it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
Thumb-sized piece of ginger, finely chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 courgettes, diced
1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
1 yellow pepper, deseeded and chopped
1 tbsp chilli powder
100g red lentils, washed and drained
1 tbsp tomato purée
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
195g can sweetcorn, drained
420g can butter beans, drained
400g can kidney beans in water, drained

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, courgettes, and peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 2: Stir in the chilli powder and cook for 1 more minute to release the flavors.
Step 3: Add the red lentils, tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, and 250ml of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Step 4: Stir in the sweetcorn, butter beans, and kidney beans. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

Tips & Variations

Add a splash of smoked paprika or a small piece of dark chocolate for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Use fresh tomatoes in season for a brighter taste or canned fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smokiness.
For added heat, include a chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chilli powder.
This dish pairs well with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.

Storage

Store leftover chilli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until piping hot, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. This chilli also freezes well for up to 2 months—defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.