Mediterranean Smoked Pears Chili
This plant-based chili takes a Mediterranean twist by pairing hearty beans and vegetables with the unexpected sweetness of smoked pears. The fruit balances the smoky spices, while cocoa powder and tomato paste deepen the flavor. It’s a warming, one-pot dish that’s wholesome, satisfying, and perfect for cozy evenings or family meals.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Vegetables:
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 bell peppers (any color), diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Beans:
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Tomatoes:
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
Broth:
2 cups vegetable broth
Spices:
2 tbsp chili powder
1 ½ tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cocoa powder
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other:
2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
Juice of 1 lime
2 smoked pears (peeled, cored, and diced)
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Vegetables:
Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, and yellow squash. Cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly softened.
Add the Pears & Spices:
Add the smoked pears to the pot. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, smoked paprika, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Build the Chili:
Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, mixing well.
Add beans, corn, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Simmer:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and the chili thickens.
Finish:
Stir in lime juice before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Ladle into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of vegan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
No Smoker? Roast the pears in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until caramelized, then stir in a little extra smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky depth.
Spice Levels: Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika to your heat preference. Add fresh chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne if you want it fiery.
Bean Flexibility: Swap in chickpeas, cannellini beans, or lentils depending on what you have on hand.
Protein Boost: Add crumbled tempeh, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or even ground turkey/chicken (if not vegan) to make it heartier.
Extra Vegetables: Eggplant, carrots, or spinach can be added without overpowering the chili.
Texture Trick: For a thicker chili, mash a cup of the beans before adding them to the pot. For a thinner consistency, add more broth.
Toppings: Try garnishing with olives, feta (if not vegan), or a drizzle of tahini for a Mediterranean finish.
Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Idea: Serve with warm pita, crusty bread, or even over quinoa or couscous for a Mediterranean-style meal.
Q&A
Q: Do I really need to smoke the pears?
A: Smoking adds depth, but you can roast them in the oven and boost the smoky flavor with smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.
Q: Can I make this oil-free?
A: Yes, simply sauté the onions and garlic in a splash of vegetable broth instead of oil.
Q: How spicy is this chili?
A: It’s moderately spiced, but you can tone it down by reducing chili powder or turn up the heat with jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: Can I serve this as a main course?
A: Absolutely. It’s hearty enough on its own but also pairs well with rice, couscous, or crusty bread.
Nutrition
(per serving, 6 servings, approx.)
Calories: 280–300
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 54 g
Fiber: 15 g
Sugars: 10 g (natural from pears and vegetables)
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
Sodium: ~550 mg
(Values vary depending on broth brand, beans, and whether oil is used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Smoked Pears Chili is a unique take on classic chili, combining smoky-sweet pears with hearty beans, vegetables, and warming spices. The result is a rich, balanced dish that’s both comforting and nourishing. It’s versatile, make-ahead friendly, and easy to adapt to different dietary needs, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.