Cashew Chili Vegetarian Recipe for a Hearty Meatless Meal

When it comes to hearty and flavorful vegetarian dishes, cashew chili stands out as a delicious and nutritious option that will warm your soul. This recipe combines the creamy crunch of cashews with a robust blend of spices, beans, and vegetables, creating a chili that’s bursting with texture and taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this cashew chili recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with a meatless marvel, this chili offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it as nourishing as it is tasty.

So, grab your apron and get ready to dive into a pot of vibrant, smoky, and nutty goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cashew chili recipe blends the best of textures and flavors. The cashews add a unique creaminess and crunch that complements the hearty beans and vegetables beautifully.

What’s more, it’s completely vegetarian and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthy meal choice that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.

The recipe is straightforward and perfect for weeknight cooking, with ingredients that are easy to find and a cooking process that’s forgiving for beginners. It’s also highly customizable, so you can adjust the spice levels or swap veggies according to your preference.

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a hearty side, cashew chili is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup raw cashews, roughly chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion and bell peppers, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the cashews. Drain and rinse the black and kidney beans in a colander.
2. Heat the olive oil: Place your pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic and bell peppers: Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers begin to soften.
4. Toast the cashews: Add the chopped cashews to the pot and stir them with the vegetables for about 2 minutes to toast lightly. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the chili.
5. Incorporate spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables and nuts evenly with the spices.
6. Add tomato paste and liquids: Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Mix everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Add beans: Gently fold in the black beans and kidney beans. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
8. Adjust seasoning and consistency: Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an optional zesty kick.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce during step 5.”

If you want to make this chili even heartier, feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut milk just before serving.

To make it vegan, ensure your broth and any toppings are plant-based. You can substitute cashews with walnuts or pecans for a different nutty profile.

Also, try serving this chili over rice or with cornbread for a complete meal.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cashew chili is wonderfully versatile. Serve it on its own for a filling, protein-packed meal, or pair it with warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

For a vibrant twist, spoon it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. If you’re hosting a party, consider serving it with an array of toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, jalapeños, and sour cream to let guests customize their bowls.

Looking for more recipes to complement your meal? Check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for light starters or indulge in some Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula for a fresh side dish.

And if you want a sweet finish, try our Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe for dessert.

Conclusion

This cashew chili vegetarian recipe is a triumph of flavors and textures, offering a hearty and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The blend of spices, beans, and the unique addition of cashews makes this chili a comforting yet exciting dish that even meat-eaters will appreciate.

It’s not only simple to make but also adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining friends, this chili will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a meatless meal without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Give it a try and discover a new favorite that you’ll return to time and time again!

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