This Creamy Cashew White Chili is your new go-to comfort food, perfect for cozy nights. It's a vibrant twist on the traditional chili, blending warmth and creaminess with a plant-based touch. Dive into a bowl that's both nourishing and satisfying.
Olive oil forms the base of our sauté, adding a smooth richness to the veggies. The large onion and garlic provide the foundational savory flavor, while the green bell pepper and jalapeño give the chili its signature zest and a touch of heat. For spices, ground cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika contribute warmth and depth. The vegetable broth blends everything together, infusing the chili with its herbal notes. White beans add creaminess and protein, complemented by the sweetness of frozen corn kernels. Our secret ingredient, raw cashews, soaked and blended with nutritional yeast and lime juice, creates a luscious, plant-based cream. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, aromatic finish.
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. A side of avocado slices or a simple green salad can add freshness and balance to the richness of the dish.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and jalapeño. Stir them around, letting them soften for about 5 minutes. You want them tender but not browned. Next, add the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir for about 2 minutes until the spices become fragrant, releasing their aroma.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the white beans and corn. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
While the chili is simmering, blend the soaked cashews with nutritional yeast and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Once blended, stir this cashew cream into the chili, letting it cook for another 5 minutes. This final step ties everything together, giving the chili a rich, creamy texture. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then garnish with fresh cilantro.