A hearty winter chili packed with beans and roasted peppers, slow-simmered into a warming bowl that feels bold, filling, and deeply comforting on cold days.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 40 min
Total: 55 min
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, roasted and chopped
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the onion and cook until soft and lightly caramelized, forming a strong winter base.
Add the garlic and spices, stirring briefly until fragrant, allowing the warmth of the spices to bloom without burning.
Stir in the roasted peppers, beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth, mixing well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook slowly until thick, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Taste and adjust seasoning, letting the chili rest a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle together.
Nutrition Facts (approx)
Calories: 360 | Protein: 14g | Carbs: 44g | Fat: 12g
Quick Facts
• one-pot
• cold weather comfort
• family approved
• budget friendly
• freezer friendly
Tips
Roasting the peppers ahead of time adds depth and natural sweetness that balances the beans perfectly.
Let the chili simmer uncovered for the last few minutes if you prefer a thicker winter-style texture.
This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for cold-weather meal prep.
Variations
Smoky Winter Bean Chili
Add smoked paprika and a splash of water during simmering to create a deeper, fire-kissed flavor that feels perfect for snowy nights. If you’re drawn to bold, slow-cooked flavors, the French Onion Pot Roast brings the same kind of cozy richness to your table.
Thick Alpine-Style Bean Chili
Mash a small portion of the beans before simmering to naturally thicken the chili and give it a heartier winter consistency. For another thick and warming option, try the Loaded Winter Potato Soup which delivers a similar stick-to-your-ribs comfort.
Vegetable-Loaded Winter Chili
Add diced carrots and celery at the beginning for extra body and a more rustic, cold-weather bowl. If you enjoy vegetable-heavy meals that still feel satisfying, the Creamy Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup is a great companion recipe to explore.