Smoky Tofu and Quinoa Vegetable Chili
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A Note from Feedfeed

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Growing up in India, vegan and vegetarian food has been a major part of my family’s diet. My mother is vegetarian and always cooked seasonally so I have fond memories of going to the local market and shopping for vegetables with her before they were transformed into a feast! Here in NYC, I visit the Union Square farmers market at least once a week to source ingredients for the FeedfeedBrooklyn test kitchen and it's one of my absolute favorite activities! 

I know a lot of people don’t like the winter... but I love it! That’s mainly because it means that I get to cozy up with all kinds of bowled beauties. Let me present this uber-comforting chili, full of hearty vegetables and protein dense ingredients, but without an ounce of meat!

Let's dive in, shall we?  Instead of the classic ground beef, I used mushrooms maximum umami power. My secret for that hearty and meaty bite? Extra firm tofu! It crumbles down to lend a meaty texture to the stew. Then aromatics like garlic, ginger, and red onion lend their sweet pungent notes as supporting players with a little liquid smoke for that long-cooked campfire flavor.

Finally, quinoa soaks up all the juices to create the perfect body for the finished chili. I serve it with a dollop of coconut yogurt, cilantro (my favorite herb), lime wedges and avocado. But really you can top it with whatever garnishes you desire. So grab a bowl and get your chili on, you won’t be missing even one ounce of protein—or flavor!

 

Recipe and Headnote Rachel Gurjar

Details

Prep time 1hr
Cook time 25mins
Serves or Makes: 6-7

Recipe

Method

  • Step 1

    In a large heavy bottomed pot, heat oil over medium heat until almost smoking. Add mushrooms and saute until brown, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic, jalapeno and ginger, then cook, covered, until softened, about 6 minutes.

  • Step 2

    Add tofu, using a wooden spoon to break up into small pieces, and saute until lightly golden, 6-8 minutes. Stir in cumin, paprika, cayenne and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add onions, cook covered for 3 minutes. Stir in vegetable stock, crushed tomatoes, liquid smoke, carrots, red and green peppers. Season with salt, then bring to a simmer. Cook, covered, for 15 minutes.

  • Step 3

    Stir in quinoa and beans, then cook covered for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender. Add kale and simmer until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt.

  • Step 4

    Divide between bowls and garnish with cilantro, jalapeños and whipped coconut cream, then serve with lime wedges.