This Quinoa Chili recipe is perfect if you’re seeking a yummy, comforting meal that everyone can enjoy. It’s a favorite among many, with a score of 4.80 out of 5 from 39 reviews. Created by Christine McMichael, it mixes beans, corn, and quinoa with tasty spices. This makes a Vegetarian Chili that’s also Vegan and Gluten-Free.
This Quinoa Chili is incredibly simple to make. You only need 30 minutes to prepare and cook it. This one-pot meal feeds up to 6 people. Each serving has about 422 calories. It’s a nutritious and delicious dinner option you’ll love to cook more than once.
Key Takeaways
- Total prep and cooking time is 30 minutes, perfect for a quick, hearty meal.
- Serves 6, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.
- 422 calories per serving, offering a nutritious but filling option.
- Suitable for Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free diets.
- Minimal prep time ensures you spend less time in the kitchen.
Introduction to Quinoa Chili
Imagine the cozy feeling of enjoying a delicious Quinoa Chili with your loved ones. A perfect dish for a Vegan Family Dinner. Not just tasty, it’s a Healthy Comfort Food and a Protein-Packed Meal. Each cup of quinoa adds 8 grams of protein. What’s more, this recipe serves eight. It’s great for those cold days when you want something filling yet good for you.
This Quinoa Chili mixes quinoa’s health benefits with classic chili flavors. You’ll find a beautiful array of veggies like red bell pepper, jalapeño, onion, celery, and carrots. Along with beans, lentils, and spices, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. This meal promises the richness and warmth of traditional chili but packed with nutrients.
Each bowl delivers about 10 grams of protein, confirming it’s a Protein-Packed Meal. It’s perfect for vegetarians and vegans. Gluten-free eaters can dig in too. Each serving has about 232 calories, making it a guilt-free choice. You’ll enjoy a balanced diet with 38g of carbohydrates, 3g of fat, and 11g of fiber. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, boasting 3015IU of Vitamin A, 59.5mg of Vitamin C, 107mg of calcium, and 5.3mg of iron.
The best part about this recipe is its flexibility. You can keep the leftover chili in the fridge for five days or freeze it for two months. This makes it a perfect meal for any busy schedule. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings.
| Feature | Amount |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 8 people |
| Protein per Serving | 10g |
| Calories per Serving | 232 |
| Carbohydrates per Serving | 38g |
| Fat per Serving | 3g |
| Sodium per Serving | 507mg |
| Fiber per Serving | 11g |
| Vitamin A per Serving | 3015IU |
| Vitamin C per Serving | 59.5mg |
| Calcium per Serving | 107mg |
| Iron per Serving | 5.3mg |
Ingredients Needed for Easy Quinoa Chili Recipe
Making a tasty quinoa chili at home is easy if you have the right ingredients. We will guide you through what you need. This includes the main ingredients, spices, and any optional toppings for your dish.
Main Ingredients
First off, let’s look at the ingredients that form the chili’s base. You will need some quinoa, various beans (such as black, pinto, and kidney), and canned corn. Garlic, onion, and bell pepper add flavor. Here’s what to get:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can black beans
- 1 can pinto beans
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can corn
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Spices and Seasonings
Spices are key for that true chili taste. For this recipe, you’ll use spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. These spices make the dish flavorful. A bit of cayenne pepper will add some heat. Here’s a spice list:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chipotle powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
This quinoa chili is great on its own but toppings make it even better. You can add things like cilantro, shredded cheese, or avocado. Pick whatever you like from this list:
- Fresh cilantro
- Scallions, sliced
- Shredded cheese
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Tortilla chips, crumbled
- Sliced jalapenos
- Fresh lime juice
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Quinoa Chili
If you want a tasty, hearty meal, check out this guide on how to make quinoa chili. This cooking guide gives you the best quinoa chili cooking tips. With it, you’ll whip up a simple one-pot chili everyone will love.
Prep Work
First, get all your ingredients ready. Chop the onions and garlic. Slice the jalapeno and measure your spices like 2 ½ teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and ½ teaspoon of ground allspice. Rinse the quinoa to make it less bitter.
Cooking the Chili
Heat oil in a big pot. Cook the onions until they’re soft. Add garlic and jalapeno, and cook for a minute more.
Throw in the quinoa and spices. Stir so everything’s mixed well. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce next. Pour in vegetable broth to get the thickness you like. Mix in 2 cans of beans, with both black and kidney beans for variety. Boil, then simmer for 20-30 minutes. Wait until the quinoa is done and the chili is as thick as you want.
Final Touches
When it’s done, add lime juice and fresh herbs. These make the chili taste even better. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with extra jalapeno, avocado, or sea salt for more flavors and textures.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tbsp | $0.01 |
| Onion | 1 large | $0.50 |
| Jalapeno | 1 | $0.10 |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | $0.05 |
| Chili powder | 2 ½ tsp | $1.07 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | $0.05 |
| Sweet paprika | 1 tsp | – |
| Ground allspice | ½ tsp | – |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can | $0.75 |
| Quinoa | 1 cup | $0.89 |
| Beans (black, kidney) | 2 cans | $4.50 |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can | $0.75 |
| Green chilies | 1 can | $0.55 |
| Salt and pepper | – | $0.02 |
This cooking guide makes quinoa chili easy, providing great quinoa chili cooking tips. Just follow this simple one-pot chili recipe. You’ll get a delicious, healthy meal quickly!
Benefits of Quinoa Chili
Quinoa Chili isn’t only delicious, it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. It’s a healthy dinner recipe choice. This fiber-rich meal merges the protein from quinoa with the benefits of beans and veggies.
| Ingredient | Nutritional Value | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | Complete protein source; high in vitamins and minerals | Supports cell repair and growth; aids digestion; regulates blood sugar levels |
| Beans | Rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants | Aids digestion; reduces cancer risks; supports immune function |
| Tomatoes | High in antioxidants | Protects cells from damage; contributes to cancer-fighting properties |
| Onion and Garlic | Contains sulfur compounds | May protect against certain cancers |
| Bell Peppers | High in vitamins A and C | Boosts immune system; improves skin health |
This protein-rich chili is not just about great taste. It boosts your health in many ways. It helps with digestion and enhances your immune system. Plus, it’s good for controlling your blood sugar levels. Every bite is full of the nutrients your body needs.
Serving Suggestions for Quinoa Chili
Quinoa chili is a great choice for different meals, from laid-back dinners to fancy get-togethers. Using these serving tips will take your meals to the next level. You’ll find them both fulfilling and memorable.
Pairing Ideas
Quinoa chili goes well with many sides and toppings. They boost its great taste. Think about these chili pairings to make your meal better:
- Cornbread: The sweetness complements the savory chili.
- Tortilla Chips: Adds a delightful crunch.
- Avocado: Offers a creamy, cooling contrast.
- Dairy-free Cheese: Provides a melty, indulgent touch.
- Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spicy chili.
- Buddha Bowls: Incorporate quinoa chili as a protein-rich base.
Occasions to Serve Quinoa Chili
This dish is ideal for several quinoa chili occasions:
- Casual Family Dinners: It’s comforting and healthy for a weekday meal.
- Super Bowl Parties: Perfect as a filling main dish for a big group.
- Meal Planning with Chili: Make a lot at once for easy meals during the week and lunch.
Quinoa chili is nutritious, with 18g of protein and 336kcal per serving. It fits into your meal planning with chili for tasty, balanced meals. It keeps for 5 days in the fridge. Or, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. This makes it a top pick for busy people who still want good, healthy food.
Storing and Reheating Quinoa Chili
Keeping your Quinoa Chili tasty is easy with the right tips. Store it in an airtight container once it cools. In the fridge, it stays fresh for 3-5 days. This makes it great for meal prep during the week. You can also freeze chili to enjoy later for up to 2 months.
To reheat chili, especially after freezing, add a little broth or water. This keeps the flavor rich and the texture just right. Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring now and then. Or, microwave it for a faster option.
Here are simple steps for food storage and warming up:
- Store in an airtight container after cooling.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- For stove-top reheating, use low heat and stir occasionally.
- For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals.
Substitutions and Variations
The quinoa chili recipe has been around for 12 years. During this time, we’ve seen many tips for changes. People enjoy making the chili spicier with jalapeños and trying different Bean Varieties and Vegetable Options.
Different Types of Beans
To Personalize Your Chili, try mixing in various Bean Varieties. You can use chickpeas, navy beans, or cannellini beans instead of traditional kidney beans. These choices add new flavors and textures, making your quinoa chili exciting.
Additional Vegetables
Add your favorite veggies to boost nutrition. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, and spinach are great Vegetable Options. They improve the nutritional value and add wonderful flavors to your chili.
If you like your chili spicy, add fresh jalapeños or more cayenne pepper. This lets you Personalize Your Chili to match your taste. Every bowl of quinoa chili can be unique to you.
What to Serve with Quinoa Chili
Looking at Chili Accompaniments for quinoa chili, there are many fun options. Classics like cornbread and tortilla chips offer a nice crunch. A fresh salad with a simple dressing balances the hearty chili well.
For creamy texture lovers, try adding sour cream or shredded cheese. Avocados add a creamy, buttery flavor that’s perfect with the chili’s spice. Want more zing? A squeeze of lime makes every bite pop.
There are unique Complementary Foods for Chili too. Like serving it over fluffy quinoa or rice for a fulfilling meal. Try pairing your chili with homemade bread for dipping into the tasty sauce.
Looking for recipe ideas? Check out this one-pot vegan quinoa chili or a slow cooker vegetarian chili with quinoa.
Finding the perfect Chili Accompaniments is all about personal taste. You might love simple rice, a crisp salad, or warm cornbread. There’s so much to try and love!
Quinoa Chili Recipe
Making a Complete Quinoa Chili Recipe is now easy with this guide. It has healthy ingredients and tasty spices. This Homemade Chili will be a favorite in your home.
This Protein-Packed Chili serves six, great for meals with family or for meal prep. It takes 10 minutes to prepare and 38 minutes to cook. All done in less than an hour.
Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups of cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 large diced yellow onion (about 1 3/4 cups)
- 4 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can of low-sodium vegetable broth or 2 cups of water
- 2 (15 oz) cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15 oz) cans of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (7 oz) can of diced green chilis
- 2 1/2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups of fresh or frozen corn
- 1 piece of dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
Add ons like cheddar cheese, avocado, sour cream, and chips are optional. Each bowl has about 401 calories, 20g of fiber, 16g of protein, and 15g of sugar.
Start with warming olive oil in a pot on medium. Cook the onion and garlic until they’re soft and smell good, about 5 minutes.
Then, mix in bell peppers, tomatoes, sauce, broth, beans, chilis, chili powder, cumin, and cocoa. After it boils, simmer for 30 minutes. Near the end, add quinoa and corn.
At last, stir in the dark chocolate and maple syrup until they melt into the chili. Blend in cilantro and lime juice before serving for extra freshness.
For more ideas, see this Complete Quinoa Chili Recipe. It’s a hearty and customizable meal.
This Homemade Chili is simple, delicious, and healthy. Top it with your favorites for a satisfying meal anytime.
Explore more tasty options like The Best Vegetarian Quinoa Chili and Black Bean and Veggie Chili.
Your Protein-Packed Chili is ready to delight!
Conclusion
As our culinary journey ends, let’s reflect on our Quinoa Chili Recipe. This dish mixes quinoa, black beans, vegetables, and spices. It shows how simple yet flavorful nutritious cooking can be. It’s healthy too, being free from gluten and dairy and rich in protein and fiber.
Preparing the ingredients takes only 10 minutes, and it cooks in less than 20 minutes in an Instant Pot. Though the Instant Pot needs about 15 minutes to build pressure, the overall quick cooking and easy cleanup make this recipe a future favorite. Enjoy it topped with avocado and cilantro or get creative with crunchy chickpeas flavored with ranch.
To sum up, the Quinoa Chili Recipe shines for its quick preparation, versatility, and nutrition. It’s a great choice for those avoiding kidney beans and can be customized for vegetarians or with added proteins like turkey. If you want a delightful, nutritious meal that’s easy to whip up, this chili is a perfect choice. It’s sure to please with its delicious taste and health benefits.
FAQ
What is Quinoa Chili?
Quinoa Chili is a tasty new take on classic chili. It’s perfect for those who don’t eat meat, are vegan, or can’t have gluten. It combines quinoa, beans, veggies, and spices in one pot. This makes it a filling meal for anyone.
What are the main ingredients for Quinoa Chili?
Key ingredients are top-notch quinoa, beans like black and kidney beans, canned corn, and veggies such as garlic, onion, and bell pepper. Don’t forget spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cilantro is added for an extra touch of flavor.
How do I make Quinoa Chili?
Start by cooking the vegetables until they’re soft. Add in the garlic, quinoa, and spices, then tomato sauce, broth, and beans. Let it cook until the quinoa is done. Stir in fresh cilantro at the end. If it gets too thick, just pour in more broth. Serve it with your favorite toppings.
What are the benefits of eating Quinoa Chili?
Quinoa Chili is packed with protein and fiber from the quinoa and beans. Quinoa contains all the amino acids you need. It’s also full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This makes it a healthy choice for dinner.
Can I customize my Quinoa Gili?
Yes! Try different beans, add veggies like sweet potatoes, or spice it up with jalapeños. The recipe is flexible, so you can adjust it to what you like or have on hand.
What can I serve with Quinoa Chili?
It goes great with sides like cornbread or tortilla chips. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch. A bit of lime adds a nice zest. It’s also tasty with just plain rice.
How do I store and reheat Quinoa Chili?
Cool it down, then keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 1-2 months. When reheating, add some broth or water to get its great taste and texture back.
What occasions are suitable for serving Quinoa Chili?
It’s great for a relaxed dinner, meal prepping, or bigger parties like the Super Bowl. Its delicious flavor and easy recipe make it a hit for any event.
Is this Quinoa Chili recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. Cook a big batch, divide it into containers, and you’re set for lunches or dinners. It freezes well, so it’s convenient for later.