I live in California, and here, as you may know, there is a large Mexican population who influence the local cuisine.

I’m not a big fan of Mexican food, but their chili – a thick stew with a mass of mouth-watering ingredients – repeatedly saved me during my pregnancies when I desperately wanted both spicy and salty, and everything, and a lot of it.

Interestingly, very few local Mexican restaurants prepare vegan chili.

And why not? They do not go for it.

Since most chili meals contain a lot of red meat, I had to get out and prepare my own: nutritious and delicious!

Instead of meat, I use tofu. I add a lot of vegetables, tomatoes, spices, and beans. It is an incredibly delicious, fragrant dish.

For fans of a more liquid version of chili, I advise you to add a little more water. I prefer it more dense.

You’ll like it! Add some brown rice and fresh herbs and you will have a healthy dinner on the table! Ready? Set?

Let’s go cooking!

We will need:

1 pack firm tofu

1.5 sticks celery

1 red sweet pepper

1 zucchini

1 medium white onion

2 cloves garlic

3-4 champignons

1 can tomatoes

1/2 can black beans

1/4 can red beans

1 tsp. chili pepper

1/2 tsp. chili flakes

1 tsp. turmeric

1/2 tsp. paprika

1.5-2 tbsp. cocoa powder

1/2 tbsp. lemon juice or light vinegar

Salt to taste

Fresh greens – cilantro

Vegetable oil for frying

1 / 2-3 / 4 cups (1 cup – 250 ml.) of water (optional)

Cut all the vegetables.

Pour oil in a frying pan and place the vegetables there.

Squeeze the water out of the tofu.

Do not forget that you need GMO-free tofu.

Shred the tofu by hand or in a blender until it crumbles, add the beans, vinegar and tomatoes.

Add the spices, greens, and cocoa powder. Additional liquid – water – should be poured gradually, as soon as the chili is ready. Do not rush, stir slowly. Do not add the water all at once or you will end up with a soup.

Stew for about 40 minutes on a very low heat.

 The composition should acquire a dark color, a thick consistency, and a bright aroma.

Serve with fresh herbs! Bon appétit!