This three bean chili is full of plant based nutrition your body needs to thrive. It’s extremely versatile and you can use whatever veggies and/or beans you have on hand.
1-2Tablespoonsof chili powder (+ a pinch of cayenne, if you like it extra spicy)
1teaspoonof salt, or smoked salt (to taste)
1Tablespoonof maple syrup, or sugar (optional)
1Tablespoonof turmeric
1Tablespoonof paprika
Crispy Corn Cakes:
1cupof corn meal
1cupof all purpose flour (gluten-free is fine)
1/2cupof coarse cornmeal (polenta)
3/4teaspoonof salt
1/2teaspoonof baking powder
2Tablespoonsof maple syrup
2Tablespoonsof olive oil
1 - 1 1/2cupsof water
Instructions
Start the chili in a large pot or deep skillet. Heat a teaspoon of olive oil to medium-low heat, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot and saute for 4-5 minutes until lightly browning. Add the sweet potato, corn, kidney, black beans, and chickpeas. Stir and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add all spices, maple syrup, salt, and tomatoes. Add a bit of water if necessary, to bring to nice chili consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook, covered and undisturbed, for 20 minutes until sweet potatoes are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If making the crispy corn cakes, in a medium bowl whisk together all dry ingredients, corn meal though baking powder. Add wet ingredients, maple syrup through water. Stir well and heat non-stick skillet to medium high heat. Ladle 1/4 cup of batter onto pan, tilting pan to spread into a circle. When browning on bottom and bubbling on top, flip over and cook 30-45 more seconds. Repeat.
Keep them warm on a plate in the oven if needed. Serve a ladle of chili atop corn cakes when done. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if you have it and enjoy!
Notes
The skillet corn cakes this chili sits atop are absolutely delicious, but not at all necessary in order to enjoy this colorful creation.