Are you tired of the same old chili with tomatoes? If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful chili that’s both satisfying and easy to make, this tomato-free version is perfect for you! Whether you’re avoiding tomatoes for dietary reasons or simply looking to switch things up, this chili delivers all the rich, savory goodness you love without the traditional tomato base. Packed with spices, tender beans, and your choice of protein, it’s a customizable dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. Ready to try a fresh take on chili? Let’s dive into this comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s bound to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s made without tomatoes. This chili is a perfect blend of savory flavors and hearty ingredients that’ll keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative or just want a chili that feels like a hug in a bowl, this recipe has you covered.
Here’s why you’ll love this Chili Without Tomatoes:
- Packed with Flavor: Without tomatoes, this chili gets its rich depth from a mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic. You won’t miss the tomatoes with such bold flavors in every bite!
- Hearty and Satisfying: This chili is full of protein-rich beans and your choice of meat (or a veggie option), making it a filling, satisfying meal for any occasion.
- Perfect for All Diets: Whether you’re following a tomato-free diet, looking to lower acidity, or just want to try something different, this chili is a versatile and delicious option.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking. Want it milder? Skip the hot peppers. Craving something spicier? Add extra chili powder or cayenne. Plus, this recipe is easy to modify for vegetarians or vegans – swap in your favorite plant-based protein for a tasty meatless meal!
- Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying without a lot of effort.
If you’re ready to enjoy a hearty, tomato-free chili that’s bursting with flavor, let’s get started on the ingredients!
Ingredients of Chili Without Tomatoes
To make this delicious tomato-free chili, you’ll need just a few key ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Don’t worry – everything here is easy to find, and you can even make a few substitutions to fit your taste or dietary needs. Let’s get started!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Protein: You can use ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh or lentils for a vegetarian or vegan option. For a heartier chili, feel free to mix meats – ground beef and sausage work beautifully together.
- Beans: Kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans are all excellent choices. You can even use a combination to add variety and texture.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers gives the chili a pop of color and sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions are great for building flavor right at the start. They’ll cook down and add a nice base to your chili.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic depth to the chili. Don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Chili Powder & Cumin: These spices are the heart of this recipe, giving it that classic chili flavor. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your taste – more chili powder for heat, or more cumin for a smoky touch.
- Broth: Use beef, chicken, or vegetable broth to create the base of your chili. For extra richness, you can add a little splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Seasonings: A pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika will enhance all the flavors. For a spicy kick, try adding cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Optional Toppings (for extra flavor):
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully on top of a hot bowl of chili.
- Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream will bring a smooth, creamy texture while balancing the heat of the chili.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the chili a burst of freshness.
- Tortilla Chips: For a fun crunch, serve your chili with crispy tortilla chips on the side or crumbled on top.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a hearty, comforting chili that’s full of flavor. Now, let’s move on to the next step – cooking up this delicious dish!
Instructions of Chili Without Tomatoes
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t worry; this chili comes together easily, and the best part is that it’s all made in one pot. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, tomato-free chili in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to caramelize. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a fantastic meal!
Cook the Garlic and Protein
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to become fragrant.
Now, add your protein (ground beef, turkey, or plant-based protein). Use a spoon to break the meat apart and cook until it’s fully browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. This is where all the savory goodness starts to come together.
Season It Up
Sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the meat and vegetables evenly. This step adds that essential depth of flavor.
Add the Beans and Broth
Pour in the beans and broth, stirring to combine. This is the base of your chili, and it’s where all the flavors really start to meld together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Simmer and Let It Thicken
Allow the chili to cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, the broth will reduce and the chili will thicken up, creating a rich, hearty texture. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash a few of the beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon to add more body.
Adjust the Seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to perfect the flavor.If you like more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. For a deeper flavor, stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a little extra cumin. The beauty of this chili is that it’s easy to tweak based on your preferences!
Serve and Enjoy
Once the chili is thickened and the flavors have melded, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crunchy tortilla chips.
That’s it – simple, savory, and absolutely delicious! This tomato-free chili is sure to become a go-to comfort food, packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Pro Tips and Variations
Now that you’ve got the basic recipe down, let’s dive into some tips and variations to take your tomato-free chili to the next level. These tweaks will help you customize the chili to suit your taste, dietary needs, and the ingredients you have on hand.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili Without Tomatoes:
- Enhance the Depth of Flavor
For an extra layer of richness, consider adding a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a small amount of dark chocolate to the chili. It may sound unusual, but it will bring out the savory notes of the chili and add complexity without being detectable as chocolate. - Balance the Spice
If you’re worried about the chili being too spicy, start with a small amount of chili powder and cayenne. You can always add more later! For a milder version, use sweet paprika instead of regular chili powder, or even leave out the cayenne entirely. - Thicken It Up
If your chili turns out a bit too thin, simply let it simmer for a little longer. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans or add a spoonful of cornmeal to thicken it without changing the flavor. - Add Smoked Paprika
For a smoky twist, substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika. It will give your chili a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices and broth.
Tasty Variations to Try:
- Vegetarian or Vegan Chili
Looking to make a plant-based version? Swap the ground beef or turkey for lentils, black beans, or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, and mushrooms. The beans add plenty of protein, making it just as hearty and filling as the meat version. - Spicy Chili
If you love heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You could even add some chopped green chilies for an extra kick! Keep tasting as you go to ensure it’s the right spice level for you. - Slow Cooker Version
Prefer a more hands-off approach? This chili can easily be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers, then add everything to the slow cooker with your broth, beans, and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a great option for busy days when you want to set it and forget it! - Meat Lovers’ Chili
For an even heartier chili, try using a mix of ground beef, sausage, and bacon. The bacon will add a smoky, crispy element to the chili that really takes it to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips:
- Meal Prep
This chili stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the start of the week and reheat it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. - Freezing Chili
Leftovers can be frozen for up to three months. Simply let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
With these pro tips and variations, you can make this tomato-free chili uniquely your own. Whether you prefer it spicy, smoky, or plant-based, there’s a version for everyone. Enjoy experimenting and make this recipe your new go-to comfort food!
How to Serve Chili Without Tomatoes
Now that you’ve made your delicious, tomato-free chili, it’s time to think about how to serve it! A bowl of chili is already a comforting meal on its own, but the right toppings and sides can elevate the experience and make it even more satisfying. Here are some ideas to make your chili truly shine:
Topping Ideas:
- Shredded Cheese
A classic chili topping! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack are all fantastic choices. The cheese will melt beautifully over the hot chili, adding creaminess and a little extra richness. - Sour Cream
A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and creamy contrast to the warm, spicy chili. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based sour cream alternative or a spoonful of creamy avocado instead. - Chopped Cilantro
Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the chili. It’s the perfect garnish for adding a bright, herby note to each bite. - Tortilla Chips
For a crunchy texture, serve your chili with tortilla chips on the side or crumbled on top. The chips add a satisfying crunch that balances the smoothness of the chili. - Jalapeños or Hot Sauce
If you like it spicy, top your chili with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce. This is a great way to adjust the heat level to your liking.
Side Dishes to Pair With Your Chili:
- Cornbread
You can’t go wrong with a warm slice of cornbread alongside your chili. It’s a perfect pairing that soaks up all the flavorful broth. Plus, it adds a sweet, fluffy contrast to the spicy chili. - Rice
Serve your chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a more filling meal. White, brown, or even cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option) all work well with the chili’s rich flavors. - Salad
For a lighter side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the warmth of the chili. You can even add some diced avocado for extra creaminess. - Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for something savory and healthy, grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with chili. They add a smoky flavor that complements the chili perfectly.
Creative Serving Ideas:
- Chili Nachos
For a fun twist, turn your chili into nachos! Spread some tortilla chips on a baking sheet, spoon over the chili, and top with cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, then finish with sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro for a loaded nacho dish. - Chili Fries
If you’re craving something indulgent, try serving your chili over crispy fries. Top it with cheese and sour cream for a delicious chili cheese fry experience.
Serving your chili in these creative and flavorful ways will make your meal even more exciting and satisfying. Whether you stick to the basics or try a new twist, the perfect toppings and sides can turn this tomato-free chili into an unforgettable meal. Enjoy!
Chili Without Tomatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup pureed butternut squash or pumpkin
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth, add the beans, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and butternut squash puree. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Notes
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
And there you have it – a hearty, comforting, and totally delicious chili without tomatoes! This recipe is perfect for anyone who’s looking for a tomato-free alternative, whether for dietary reasons or simply to enjoy a new twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with rich flavors, tender beans, and savory spices that come together to create a chili you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Without Tomatoes:
- No Tomatoes, No Problem: You’ll be amazed at how delicious chili can be without tomatoes. The combination of spices and broth creates a rich, flavorful base that’s perfect on its own or with your favorite toppings.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a milder version, or a plant-based option, this chili is completely adaptable to your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting dish, this chili fits the bill. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
This tomato-free chili is versatile, flavorful, and perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a bowl of chili, remember that you don’t need tomatoes to create a rich, savory dish!
Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your delicious bowl of chili – don’t forget the toppings! Happy cooking!
FAQs
There are several great substitutes for tomatoes in chili! You can use roasted red peppers, pumpkin puree, or even a combination of carrots and squash to mimic the sweetness and texture of tomatoes. Some people also use a blend of tomato paste with a little water or broth to achieve a similar consistency and richness.
Not at all! While traditional chili recipes often include tomatoes, there are plenty of variations that skip them. Tomato-free chili recipes focus on other ingredients like beans, meat, and flavorful spices, creating a rich and hearty dish without the need for tomatoes.
If you’re looking for a substitute for tomato juice, you can try using vegetable or chicken broth for a savory base. Another option is to use a mixture of roasted red pepper puree and a little vinegar to add some acidity and depth of flavor, mimicking the tangy notes of tomato juice.
Instead of chopped tomatoes, you can use pureed bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. These vegetables provide a similar texture and absorb the chili spices well. For a smoother base, try using pumpkin or butternut squash puree, which adds body and a subtle sweetness.
If you’re avoiding tomatoes for dietary reasons or personal preference, there are plenty of alternatives. Roasted red peppers, squash, or even fruit like apples or peaches can be used in both savory and sweet applications, depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for. You can also experiment with vinegars or citrus fruits like lime for a tangy bite.