Tex-Mex · easy · 50 min · serves 6

How to make chili con carne vegan

Short answer

Replace beef mince with walnut + black bean + tvp mix. The method is unchanged and takes about 50 minutes for 6 servings.

What makes the classic version non-vegan

  • Beef mince

Swap table

Instead ofUseNote
Beef minceWalnut + black bean + TVP mixLayered texture beats one substitute

Method

  1. 1Toast cumin, oregano and chipotle in oil until fragrant.
  2. 2Brown TVP hard with tomato paste until it catches slightly.
  3. 3Add beans, tomatoes, chopped walnuts, a square of dark chocolate and stock.
  4. 4Simmer at least 40 minutes, uncovered, until glossy and thick.
  5. 5Finish with lime and fresh coriander.

The one thing people get wrong

Dark chocolate and lime at opposite ends of cooking are what give it depth and lift.

Frequently asked questions

Can chili con carne be made vegan?
Yes. Replace beef mince with walnut + black bean + tvp mix. The method stays essentially the same and takes about 50 minutes.
What is the hardest part of veganizing chili con carne?
Dark chocolate and lime at opposite ends of cooking are what give it depth and lift.
How long does vegan chili con carne take?
About 50 minutes for 6 servings — a easy recipe.

Convert any recipe automatically

Paste a recipe or URL into VeggieOS and get a vegan version with swaps, ratios and a shopping list — 100% free, no paid plans.

Try VeggieOS free — no paid plans

More Tex-Mex dishes to veganize

Keep going