A Firehouse Fiesta: A Vegan Chili Extravaganza

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Get ready to spice things up with "The Firehouse Fiesta," a vegan chili that's bursting with flavor and pure joy. This hearty and protein-packed chili features a vibrant mix of kidney and black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and a symphony of smoky spices that will ignite your taste buds. Topped with a layer of creamy vegan cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chives, this chili is a fiesta in every bowl. Gather your loved ones, grab some tortillas, and prepare to be amazed by "The Firehouse Fiesta" - a vegan chili experience that will leave you wanting more!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)

• 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight or rinsed and canned

• 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight or rinsed and canned

• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spice level)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeno (if using) and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes more.

3. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

4. Serve hot with a sprinkle of vegan cheddar cheese and fresh chives.

Some Tips:

• For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork before serving.

• For an extra smoky flavor, add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder.

• Serve with your favorite toppings, such as chopped avocado, sour cream (vegan alternative), tortilla chips, or cornbread.

• Put a bottle of hot sauce on the table for the hardcore!

Enjoy the Firehouse Fiesta!

For more great vegan recipes and cooking tips visit our Facebook recipe and cooking group The Vegan Kitchen: Recipes + More!

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