Vegan White Bean Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan White Bean Chili is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s easy to make, filling, and full of plant-based goodness. The combination of creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and a savory spice blend creates a rich and satisfying dish. The chili has just the right amount of heat, balanced by the creamy beans and a fresh squeeze of lime. It’s a great option for a cozy weeknight meal, meal prep, or for serving at a gathering. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

• 1 can (15 oz) diced green chilies (mild or hot, depending on preference)

• 3 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for warmth)

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or more to taste)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional toppings: avocado, vegan sour cream, lime wedges, or tortilla chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add the spices and chilies: Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, turmeric (if using), smoked paprika (if using), ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Add the diced green chilies and cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and become fragrant.

3. Add the beans and broth: Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.

4. Add corn and lime juice: If using, stir in the corn and lime juice, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as desired.

5. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Optional toppings include avocado slices, vegan sour cream, extra lime wedges, or tortilla chips.

6. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Vegan White Bean Chili!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For extra protein, add quinoa, tempeh, or tofu to the chili. You can also add more beans or a cup of cooked lentils for variety.

• More Veggies: Add extra vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

• Spicy Version: If you prefer a spicier chili, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or more chili powder to the mix.

• Creamier Chili: For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream at the end of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

• Reheating: Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. You can also microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you don’t have fresh ones on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain the vegetables before adding them to the soup.

2. Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute the white beans with other beans like pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but it will still work well.

3. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the lime juice and corn in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

4. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, canned beans are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe. Use about 4 cans of drained and rinsed beans instead of dried beans. Be sure to reduce the cooking time since the beans are already cooked.

5. Can I add more spice to this chili?

Yes, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped fresh chilies for a spicier kick.

6. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a while as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

7. Can I add creaminess to this chili?

Yes, you can add a bit of coconut milk, cashew cream, or a splash of non-dairy milk to make the chili creamier and richer.

8. How can I make this chili thicker?

To thicken the chili, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or immersion blender, or simmer the chili uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the broth.

9. Can I add rice to this chili?

Yes! You can serve the chili over cooked rice for a more filling meal, or even stir in cooked rice to make the chili heartier.

10. Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, this Vegan White Bean Chili is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Vegan White Bean Chili is a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal or a hearty dinner. With the creamy texture of the white beans, the savory depth of the spices, and the richness of the vegetables, this chili is sure to warm you up and leave you feeling nourished. It’s quick to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy this comforting and wholesome chili!