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A bowl of vegan pumpkin chili topped with fresh herbs and served with crusty bread on a rustic table.

Vegan Pumpkin Chili: The Ultimate Comforting Fall Lunch Idea

This cozy vegan pumpkin chili is packed with beans, vegetables, and warm autumn spices for a hearty and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a comforting fall lunch or dinner and tastes even better the next day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • wooden spoon
  • cutting board
  • chef's knife
  • measuring spoons
  • measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, bell peppers, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, and maple syrup. Stir until the pumpkin is fully mixed in and the chili is smooth.
  6. Add the black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn. Bring the chili to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors come together.
  8. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and taste. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
  9. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced avocado. Serve with tortilla chips or warm bread.

Notes

For a thicker chili, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered. The flavor deepens after resting, so leftovers are especially delicious the next day. Adjust the cayenne and chili powder to control the heat level.