A family favorite from the Nicholas Markets kitchen — hearty, nutritious, and made entirely from pantry staple ingredients.
Made with hearty whole grains, protein-rich beans, and a blend of warming spices like cumin and chili powder, this vegetarian chili comes together quickly and develops even deeper flavor as it simmers.
4 servings
TOTAL YIELD
8 oz
PORTION SIZE
5 Days
SHELF LIFE
25
CAL / SERVING
Fresh & Simple
ABOUT THIS RECIPE
This hearty whole grain vegetarian chili is made with nutrient rich beans, farro, wheatberries, and warming spices simmered together in a savory tomato base. It comes together easily and deepens in flavor as it cooks.
Total Time: 45 to 60 minutes
Prep Time: 10 to 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 to 45 minutes
Rest Time: 5 to 10 minutes
What You'll Need
Ingredients
Everything for a 4 serving batch.
| Amount | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 Tablespoons | Minced Garlic Clove |
| 1/4 Cup | Diced Yellow Onion |
| 1 Cup | Canned Plum Tomatoes |
| 1/4 Cup | Canned Red Kidney Beans |
| 1/4 Cup | Canned Cannellini Beans |
| 1/4 Cup | Canned Black Beans |
| 3/4 Cup | Farro |
| 1/4 Cup | Wheatberry |
| 3/4 Cup | Canned Garbanzo Beans |
| 1 Teaspoon | Ground Cumin |
| 1 Teaspoon | Chili Powder |
| 1 Teaspoon | Kosher Salt |
| 3 Cups | Water or Vegetable Stock |
Step by Step
HOW TO MAKE IT
Follow these simple steps for the best result.
Build the base
In a large pot over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Sauté the minced garlic and diced yellow onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Toast the Spices
Add the ground cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to release the spices' full aroma and deepen flavor.
Add Tomatoes & Liquid
Pour in the canned plum tomatoes and stir to combine with the aromatics and spices. Then add 3 cups of water or vegetable stock.
Add Grains and Legumes
Stir in the farro and wheatberries. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduced heat to a simmer. Cook until the grains begin to soften.
Add Beans
Add the red kidney beans, cannellini beans, black beans, and garbanzo beans. Stir well to evenly distribute throughout the chili.
Simmer and finish
Let the chili simmer until grains are tender and the mixture has thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm.
Chef’s Notes
TIPS FOR THE BEST RESULT
| METHOD | PROFESSIONAL ADVICE |
|---|---|
| Use Quality Vegetable Stock | A flavorful stock builds a strong base and enhances the depth of the chili. |
| Cook Low & Slow | Gentle simmering ensures the grains cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor. |
| Stir Periodically | Prevents sticking and helps maintain an even texture throughout the pot. |
| Adjust Liquid as Needed | Add stock or water during cooking to keep the chili at the desired consistency. |
| Let it Rest Before Serving | Resting allows the flavors to meld and creates a richer, more cohesive taste. |
Serve hot as a hearty main dish or comforting side, topped with fresh herbs, avocado, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
Finish with a final stir and adjust seasoning to taste for a perfectly balanced, rich, and satisfying chili.
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