Did I ever tell you I was a vegan for a month once? Actually is was closer to three weeks, but then I gave it up for bacon. wink A close friend came to stay with us, and her family was vegan at the time. I have to admit, as much as I love to cook I was a little nervous to cut out all dairy, eggs and meat.
I get really fussy over “substitute foods” like soysage and tofurkey and wasn’t willing to go there. Yet we made it through the visit and tried some new recipes without any major hiccups. After my friends left, it dawned on me that veganism is the one thing I had yet to try… Challenge accepted.
For close to three weeks I survived on beans, quinoa, other grains, fruit and loads of vegetables. Eating a clean plant-based diet felt really healthy. Although we chose not to continue it long term, I’m glad I was a vegan for a little while.
It inspired me to find new ways to prepare my veggies, and to add more vegetables to dishes I already make! Take chili for instance. Remove the meat and you have beans and vegetables. So for this Chunky Vegan Chili, I simply added more vegetables, making a hearty vegetable chili with sweet potatoes, red peppers and fresh corn.
This Chunky Vegan Chili is perfect for summer because you can use all garden spoils. Yet you can make it anytime of year. It’s thick, rich, and bursting with flavor.
Chunky Vegan Chili is great served on it’s own, over baked potatoes, or as a dip with tortilla chips. It’s not only vegan; it’s also gluten free! Share This Recipe With Friends!
