These 7 Recipes Prove The Best Chili Doesn't Need Any Beef

For most Americans, chili is a staple. In fact, according to one survey by National Today, nearly 70 percent of people in the US say they love chili, while only four percent say they aren’t a fan. Chili even has its own day (the fourth Thursday in February) and is the official state dish of Texas.

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The dish is popular not just because it’s comforting, warming, and hearty, but also because it’s incredibly versatile. It can be made with many different ingredients, from beans to tofu to lentils to ground (plant-based) meat. Whatever your dietary preference, there is a chili recipe for you. For some of our meat-free favorites, check out the list below.

What did the original chili consist of?

Chili is considered a Tex-Mex dish, which means that while it was likely derived from traditional Mexican cuisine, it was actually created in Texas (other popular Tex-Mex dishes include fajitas, queso, breakfast tacos, and loaded nachos). Per Allrecipes, research suggests that it first became popular in the early to mid-1800s, among Mexican cowboys and forty-niners (people who went to California in search of gold). 

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Back in the 19th century, chili was likely made with beef, chili peppers, and seasoning, but recipes varied from state to state—and that’s still the case today. In Texas, chilis are often made with chunks of beef and red chili peppers, while in New Mexico, the dish is often made with green Hatch chiles. In states like Ohio and Michigan, chili is often cooked with ground beef, tomatoes, and beans.

Is chili good for you?

Chilis that rely heavily on red meat (like Texas chilis, which are usually bean-free) can be high in saturated fat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends limiting saturated fat intake as it can increase levels of LDL cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Research also suggests that frequent intake of red meat may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cancer, and even conditions like endometriosis.

However, chili can also be a pretty nutritious dish, especially when it’s loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients like tomatoes and beans. Plant-based ingredients are full of essential vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C and potassium, as well as antioxidants and fiber, which is essential for supporting digestive health. 

How to make meatless chili: 7 recipes

1 Easy, Smoky Vegan Bean and Lentil Chili

Smoky paprika, warming cinnamon, and mild chili powder give this delicious lentil and bean chili a pop of delicious flavor. From the Plant-Powered Families cookbook, this recipe is going to be a crowd-pleasing midweek hit, perfect for warming up the whole family on cool fall and winter evenings.
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Hannah Kaminsky

2 Vegan Sweet Potato Chili

Sweet potato is another popular plant-based chili base, thanks to its natural sweetness and soft, hearty texture. Combine it with kidney beans, canned tomatoes, red bell peppers, and onions for an easy, comforting dish that’s loaded with vitamins and flavor.
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Charity Morgan

3 Meaty Vegan Lentil Chili Con Chili

If you’re craving a meaty chili, you can’t beat this recipe from the Unbelievably Vegan cookbook, which is made with beans, lentils, and vegetables. The secret to the umami-rich next-level flavor is in the addition of liquid aminos and the spice blend, which includes coconut sugar, smoked paprika, and unsweetened cacao powder.
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Simple Veganista

4 Easy Three Bean Chili

Why stop at kidney beans? This delicious recipe from Simple Veganista adds black beans and pinto beans into the mix for extra vitamins, protein, and texture. Jalapeños bring a tasty kick of heat while onions, garlic, and cocoa powder help to bring a depth of rich flavor to the dish. “A good chili recipe is a must, and this vegan three-bean chili is loaded with flavor, protein, and fiber,” says recipe developer Julie West. “Plus, it’s easy to put together and ready in about 30 minutes.”
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Sweet Potato Soul

5 Hearty Tofu Chili

If you want a meaty texture without the meat, tofu is a great plant-based alternative, especially when it’s air-fried like in this recipe from Sweet Potato Soul.  The soy-based protein also soaks up the flavors of herbs and spices beautifully. “I’ve made so many types of chili in my life, but this tofu chili has fast become my favorite,” says recipe developer Jenné Claiborne. “It reminds me of the turkey chili of my childhood.”
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At Elizabeth’s Table

6 Vegan White Chicken Chili

In the Southwest, tomato-free white chili is another popular variation of the hearty Tex-Mex dish. This version is often made with white beans, spices, and chicken, but you can also make a delicious, protein-packed version of the comforting dish with seitan, just like this recipe from At Elizabeth’s Table demonstrates.
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Daughter of Seitan

7 Meaty Vegan TVP Chili

Textured vegetable protein (TVP) can take the place of animal meat in many recipes. It’s tender, versatile, and good at soaking up flavors, hence why it’s the perfect ingredient in this flavor-packed vegan chili recipe from Daughter of Seitan. TVP is also packed with protein and it’s budget-friendly, too. “I did some rough math and, assuming you already have the spices on hand, this entire batch of chili costs about $6 to make, which is about $1.20 per serving,” says recipe developer Mimi Ace.
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England’s southern coast.