🌶️ Hearty Vegan Chili with Tofu Crumbles – Spicy, Smoky & Protein-Packed This Vegan Chili is the ultimate

 

This Vegan Chili is the ultimate comfort food—rich, smoky, and full of bold flavor. Made with tofu crumbles, black beans, kidney beans, and a blend of warm spices, it’s a satisfying plant-based meal that even meat-eaters will love. The addition of maple syrup and cacao powder gives this chili a deep, complex flavor that sets it apart from the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chili Recipe

• Protein-Rich & Hearty – Tofu crumbles and beans make this a filling, high-protein meal.

• Smoky & Spiced – Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add bold, warming flavor.

• Vegan & Dairy-Free – 100% plant-based and packed with nutritious ingredients.

• Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

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🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need

Tofu Crumbles

• 1 tablespoon tamari

• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained

Chili

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with onion and garlic

• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth

• 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• ½ teaspoon cacao powder

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Tofu Crumbles

Mix tamari, nutritional yeast, and olive oil in a medium bowl. Crumble tofu into the bowl and mash with a potato masher until it resembles ground meat.
Spread onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.

2. Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and all spices, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Chili

Stir in both cans of tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Add black beans, kidney beans, vegetable broth, maple syrup, and cacao powder. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Simmer & Combine

Continue simmering for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth if needed for desired consistency.

5. Add Tofu Crumbles

Stir in the baked tofu crumbles and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

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🌱 Serving Suggestions for Vegan Chili

• Serve with avocado slices, vegan sour cream, or lime wedges.

• Top with fresh cilantro or green onions for brightness.

• Pair with cornbread, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips.

• Add to nachos or stuffed peppers for a creative twist.

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💡 Pro Tips

• Bake the tofu crumbles for the best texture—they mimic ground beef perfectly.

• Add more cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.

• Make a double batch—this chili freezes beautifully for easy future meals.