Vegan White Chickpea Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, this Vegan White Chickpea Chili is just what you need! Packed with nutrient-rich veggies and hearty beans, it’s a delightful twist on the classic white chicken chili. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!

What makes this chili truly special is its creamy broth made with coconut milk and vegetable broth, seasoned beautifully with spices. It’s not just comfort food; it’s also a wholesome option that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and colorful ingredients, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite toppings or enjoy it as is—it’s delicious either way!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fiber and protein from the beans, this chili is both filling and good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays a vital role in creating that rich flavor profile. Let’s gather everything we need to whip up this delicious Vegan White Chickpea Chili.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno, ribs and seeds removed, petite diced
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

For the Spices

• 1.5 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Beans & Broth

• 2 (15 oz.) cans garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 16 oz. salsa verde (green salsa)
• 1 (13.5 oz.) full fat coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth

For Garnishing

• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper
• Tortilla strips
• Sour cream (vegan if preferred)
• Crumbled cotija cheese (or vegan alternative)
• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeno
• Lime wedges

Variations

This Vegan White Chickpea Chili is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or try out some variations to suit your taste preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Swap the Beans: Use black beans or kidney beans if you want to mix things up!
• Creamy Alternative: Substitute coconut milk with cashew cream for a different creamy texture.

How to Make Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeno along with a couple of good pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently until they soften. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili!

Step 2: Add Aromatics & Spices

Next, stir in the thinly sliced garlic along with ground cumin, chili powder, ground coriander, and dried oregano. Cook this mixture for another minute while stirring often. This will release all those wonderful aromas that make your kitchen feel warm and inviting.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the bottom of your pot. Scrape up any tasty bits that may have stuck during cooking; they add depth to your chili’s flavor.

Step 4: Combine Beans & Broth

Now it’s time to add in those lovely garbanzo beans and pinto beans along with salsa verde, coconut milk, and the rest of the vegetable broth. Don’t forget another couple pinches of salt and pepper! Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your mix to a simmer over medium-high heat before reducing it down to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes—this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in fresh lime juice at the end for that zesty kick! Taste your chili here and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish each bowl with your favorite toppings like tortilla strips, sour cream (or vegan alternative), crumbled cheese (or vegan version), fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and lime wedges. Enjoy every warming spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Making this delicious Vegan White Chickpea Chili is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your chili game even further!

• Prep Ahead: Chopping your veggies and measuring out your spices in advance can save you time on busy weeknights. It helps streamline the cooking process so you can enjoy the delightful aroma of your chili without the stress.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, consider reducing the amount of jalapeno or omitting it altogether. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add extra diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick it up a notch!

• Experiment with Beans: While garbanzo and pinto beans are fantastic choices, don’t hesitate to swap them for other beans like white beans or black beans. This not only changes the flavor profile but adds variety to your meals.

• Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the chili before serving. This enhances the richness and makes every spoonful velvety smooth!

• Store Leftovers Wisely: This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freezes beautifully! Portion out servings in airtight containers for convenient meals later on.

How to Serve Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Serving this Vegan White Chickpea Chili is just as fun as making it! You can create a colorful spread that enhances the flavors of this comforting dish.

Garnishes

Here are a few simple garnishes that will take your chili presentation to the next level:

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Tortilla strips: Homemade fried tortilla strips offer an irresistible crunch and texture contrast against the creamy chili.
• Sliced jalapenos: For those who crave a little heat, fresh sliced jalapenos provide an extra kick and make for a vibrant garnish.

Side Dishes

Pairing sides with your Vegan White Chickpea Chili can enhance both flavor and enjoyment. Consider these delightful options:

• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful broth while adding sweetness to balance out the spices.
• Avocado salad: A light avocado salad with lime dressing brings creaminess and freshness, making it a refreshing complement to the hearty chili.
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side that feels light yet satisfying.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies not only add color to your meal but also provide additional nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

With these tips and serving ideas in mind, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy bowl of Vegan White Chickpea Chili that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan White Chickpea Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making busy dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label the container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container or bag for expansion as it freezes.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish!

Can I make Vegan White Chickpea Chili spicy?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeno or add your favorite hot sauce to increase the heat level.

What can I serve with Vegan White Chickpea Chili?

This chili pairs well with tortilla strips, avocado slices, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

How long does Vegan White Chickpea Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chili can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Vegan White Chickpea Chili! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings family and friends together. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. Happy cooking!