Vegan Chili with Cripsy Tofu

• Yields: 6 servings

• Prep time: 1 hour (excluding overnight marinating)

• Cook time: 2-3 hours

Ingredients

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Press the tofu: Place the tofu on a cutting board and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object on top of the tofu to press out excess moisture for about 10 minutes.

2. Marinate the tofu: In a bowl, combine the tofu cubes with a mixture of tamari, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.

3. Cook the tofu: Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until crispy on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened.

5. Add the spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

6. Add the liquids and beans: Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.

7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the flavors have blended and the chili has thickened.

8. Add the tofu: Return the crispy tofu to the chili and heat through.

9. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Serve: Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded vegan cheese, avocado, chopped onions, and cilantro.

Tips

• To ensure the tofu stays crispy, make sure it is dry before cooking and cook it over medium-high heat.

• You can use any type of vegan chili powder or spice blend you prefer.

• For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered until the excess liquid has evaporated.

• Feel free to add other vegetables to the chili, such as diced tomatoes, carrots, or celery.