This Vegetarian Lager Chili brings all the smoky, savory, slow-simmered depth of classic chili — without the meat.

With three kinds of beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, smoky spices, and a bright pour of crisp lager, it’s the kind of meatless meal that satisfies like the real deal.

Perfect for feeding a crowd, game day spreads, or weeknight dinners where you want big flavor without the beef.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz lager (or any clean, light-bodied beer)
• 1 (28 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• Optional: 1 chipotle in adobo for smoky heat, or 1 tsp cocoa powder for depth

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook until softened — about 8–10 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and tomato paste, and cook for 1–2 minutes more.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Toast the spices for 30 seconds to bring out the flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze with Lager

Pour in the beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

Simmer for 3–5 minutes to let the alcohol cook off slightly.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Broth

Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, beans, and vegetable broth.

Bring to a simmer, cover partially, and cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Optional additions: Add chipotle in adobo or cocoa powder during this step if desired.

Step 5: Finish with Lime

Stir in lime juice just before serving to brighten all the flavors.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

• Top With:
  • Avocado
  • Cilantro
  • Sour cream or dairy-free alternative
  • Shredded cheddar or vegan cheese
  • Crushed tortilla chips
• Serve With:
  • Cornbread or garlic toast
  • Roasted sweet potatoes
  • Lager or wheat beer for pairing

Beer Pairing

• Use in chili: Lager, blonde ale, wheat beer, or kölsch
• Serve with: Same beer, or go bolder with a citrusy pale ale

Avoid bitter IPAs or dark stouts — this chili’s about balance and brightness.

Final Thoughts

Vegetarian Lager Chili proves you don’t need meat to bring the heat — or the depth.
It’s rich, hearty, and full of layered flavor from beer, beans, veggies, and spices.

Whether you’re feeding vegetarians, flexitarians, or full-on carnivores, this one hits the spot — and tastes even better the next day.

Cheers to plant-powered comfort, brewed with love! 🌶️🍺🌱

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