Whole Grain Vegetarian Chili

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.

AmountIngredient
2 TablespoonsMinced Garlic Clove
1/4 CupDiced Yellow Onion
1 CupCanned Plum Tomatoes
1/4 CupCanned Red Kidney Beans
1/4 CupCanned Cannellini Beans
1/4 CupCanned Black Beans
3/4 CupFarro
1/4 CupWheatberry
3/4 CupCanned Garbanzo Beans
1 TeaspoonGround Cumin
1 TeaspoonChili Powder
1 TeaspoonKosher Salt
3 CupsWater 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

METHODPROFESSIONAL ADVICE
Use Quality Vegetable StockA flavorful stock builds a strong base and enhances the depth of the chili.
Cook Low & SlowGentle simmering ensures the grains cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor.
Stir PeriodicallyPrevents sticking and helps maintain an even texture throughout the pot.
Adjust Liquid as NeededAdd stock or water during cooking to keep the chili at the desired consistency.
Let it Rest Before ServingResting 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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