Picture a chilly evening, the wind howling outside, and you’re wrapped in a soft blanket, holding a steaming bowl of chili. It’s one of those moments that wraps you in warmth, doesn’t it?
I’m excited to share my favorite white bean chili recipe, a dish that has become a staple in my home. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, making it the perfect companion for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
White bean chili is a comforting twist on traditional chili. Instead of the usual black or kidney beans, this version highlights creamy white beans like cannellini or navy beans. These beans not only add a smooth texture but also absorb the spices and flavors beautifully.
With ingredients like corn, green chiles, and fresh lime, white bean chili feels zesty and bright, yet warm and inviting at the same time.
This recipe is a game-changer. It embraces a simple set of ingredients that come together in harmony. You get the creaminess of the beans, the crunch of fresh veggies, and a hint of spice that’s perfect without being overwhelming.
What’s more? It’s plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. However, if you’re a meat lover, don’t worry; this dish can easily accommodate chicken or turkey. It’s versatile enough to please a crowd of any dietary preference.
4 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 carton low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels, no need to thaw
1 medium lime, juiced
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 medium celery stalks, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced green chiles, undrained
For garnish:
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Diced avocado
Sliced scallions or green onions
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – cooking this white bean chili. Follow along as I guide you through the steps.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté these veggies until they are tender, about five to seven minutes.
Add the minced garlic towards the end of this step to avoid burning it. The aroma will fill your kitchen and set the stage for the deliciousness to come!
Once your aromatics are tender, sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing them to toast for another couple of minutes. This step is crucial; it helps to deepen the flavors.
Now, it’s time to bring the chili together. Pour in your drained and rinsed white beans along with the carton of broth. If you’re using vegetable broth, it will lend a nice, rich flavor, but chicken broth works wonders too. Stir the mixture well to combine everything.
Next, throw in the undrained diced green chiles and the corn. Their sweetness adds a delightful contrast to the spices. Give it another stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. This is the time when all the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Finally, remove the pot from heat. Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the chili and stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds a refreshing brightness that balances the deeper flavors beautifully.
Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way to enhance your chili-making experience:
White Bean Chili Recipe Nutrition Facts
Absolutely! This chili is a champion at storing and reheating. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to five days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the leftovers in individual portions. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat. Easy peasy!
This chili is a meal on its own, but if you want to make it a full-fledged feast, consider these options:
This white bean chili recipe is not set in stone; it’s flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:
There you have it! A white bean chili recipe that’s full of flavor, warmth, and comfort. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs while remaining simple and delicious.
Whether you’re curling up on a cold night or feeding a crowd, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy every warm, cozy spoonful! Happy cooking!
Picture a chilly evening, the wind howling outside, and you’re wrapped in a soft blanket, holding a steaming bowl of chili. It’s one of those moments that wraps you in warmth, doesn’t it?
I’m excited to share my favorite white bean chili recipe, a dish that has become a staple in my home. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, making it the perfect companion for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way to enhance your chili-making experience:
Willie Regan is a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, inspired by the comforting, traditional recipes passed down from his grandmother. Based in Worcester, Willie shares wholesome, heartwarming dishes through his blog Grandma’s Tasty Recipes, blending nostalgic flavors with modern dietary insights. His mission is to bring people together through food, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished memories around the table.