Homemade Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
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• 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
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• 2 medium carrots, chopped
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• 2 ribs celery, chopped
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• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
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• 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
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• 2 tablespoons chili powder*
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika*
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 large can (28 ounces) or 2 small cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes**, with their juices
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• 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained
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• 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
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• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
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• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnishing
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• 1 to 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar or lime juice, to taste
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• Garnishes: chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, tortilla chips, sour cream or crème fraîche, grated cheddar cheese, etc.
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