Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and dry sauté for 3–4 minutes until it starts to brown. Add garlic, jalapeno, mushrooms, bell pepper, and zucchini, and cook for another 3–4 minutes. If veggies start to stick to the pan, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Stir in chili powder and ground cumin with veggies and continue to cook for about 1 to 2 minutes.

Add diced tomatoes and drained beans. Stir well. Add water or vegetable broth and increase heat to medium-high until chili starts to gently boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for another 10 minutes uncovered.

Stir in chopped kale and Simple Homemade Date Syrup, cover, and turn off the heat. When kale wilts and is bright green, the chili is ready!

If using, top with diced avocado, fresh chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a dollop of cashew cream just before serving.

Optional sides include brown or red rice, baked sweet or regular potato, oven-baked tortilla chips, or quinoa.