Creamy Vegan Bean Chili
Hello, Lykkers! Are you in the mood for a bowl of pure comfort that's as easy to make as it is delicious? Say hello to this Creamy Vegan White Bean Chili, a dish that's about to steal a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
With its luscious texture, bold flavors, and a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this chili is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Packed with protein, fiber, and a little spice, it's a vegan dream that doesn't skimp on satisfaction. Let's get started!
What Makes This Chili Special?
This isn't your typical chili. Forget the heavy red beans and tomato overload—this vegan version swaps them out for creamy white beans and a dreamy cashew-based "milk" that keeps things light yet indulgent. Green chiles bring a gentle heat, while corn adds a pop of sweetness.
The result? A harmonious mix of flavors—think savory, spicy, and just a touch sweet—that warms you from the inside out.
Beyond the taste, this chili is a nutritional powerhouse. Each bowl delivers about 20 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber, thanks to the white beans. It's vegan, naturally gluten-free, and endlessly customizable. Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish has you covered.
According to Dr. Lisa Young, a nutrition expert and adjunct professor at New York University, white beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy base for vegan meals.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's everything to whip up this cozy chili:
- 2 cups water
- 2/3 cup raw cashews (soak them for 20 minutes in hot water if your blender isn't powerful)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (use any good-quality olive oil available at supermarkets)
- 1 medium white onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt (add more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (double it if you love heat)
- 2 (4-oz.) cans diced green chiles (use any mild or hot diced green chiles, depending on your preference)
- 3 (15-oz.) cans white beans, drained and rinsed (any canned white beans such as cannellini beans, great northern beans, or navy beans)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or chopped kale for extra chew)
How to Make It
Let's cook up this chili in 9 simple steps:
1. Blend the Cashew Milk: Toss 2 cups water and 2/3 cup cashews into a blender. Blitz on high for 1–2 minutes until it's smooth and creamy. Set it aside.
2. Cook the Base: Warm 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring now and then. Let them soften and turn golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Spice It Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon cumin, 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Stir for 1 minute until the spices release a rich aroma.
4. Add the Stars: Dump in the green chiles, drained white beans, and corn. Give everything a good mix.
5. Pour in the Creaminess: Stir in your cashew milk. Crank the heat up a bit until it starts to bubble gently.
6. Let It Simmer: Drop the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken up nicely—add a splash of water if it's too dense.
7. Toss in Greens: Add 2 cups spinach or kale and stir until it wilts, about 1–2 minutes.
8. Season to Perfection: Taste it! Add more salt, cayenne, or pepper until it's just right for you.
9. Dish It Out: Spoon the chili into bowls, top with cilantro, green onions, or hot sauce, and serve hot. Pair it with vegan cornbread for extra coziness.
Texture Trick: Want it even creamier? Before adding the greens, blend a cup of the chili with an immersion blender, then stir it back in.
Why This Recipe Rocks
Imagine curling up with a bowl of this chili: the creamy broth coats tender beans, sweet corn bursts in every bite, and green chiles add a subtle zing. It's hearty enough to fill you up, yet light enough to feel good about seconds. At 30 minutes from start to finish, it's a lifesaver when you're short on time but big on hunger.
Plus, it's budget-friendly and adaptable—perfect for anyone, vegan or not.
So, Lykkers, there’s your ticket to chili bliss! This Creamy Vegan White Bean Chili is all about comfort, flavor, and feel-good vibes. Try it out and tell us how it went—did you spice it up with jalapeños or sneak in some extra veggies? Drop your twists in the comments and let’s keep the chili party going!