Are you craving a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal that's also quick to make? Look no further! This Plantstrong White Bean Chili is the perfect answer. Packed with protein-rich white beans, vibrant vegetables, and warming spices, this recipe is a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It’s easy enough for beginner cooks, yet flavorful enough to impress even the most seasoned home chefs. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet incredibly satisfying chili recipe.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the Flavor: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This step significantly enhances the flavor of your chili!
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Simmer to Perfection: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
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Season and Serve: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.
Tips for the Best Plantstrong White Bean Chili:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference. A dash of hot sauce adds another layer of flavor.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream before serving for a creamier texture.
- Slow cooker option: This chili is also perfect for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Vegan Chili: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Chili: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This Plantstrong White Bean Chili is a delicious and nutritious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy this easy recipe and embrace the wholesome goodness of homemade cooking! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed this quick dinner idea!