Vegan 1-Point White Chili Recipe: A Hearty, Healthy Plant-Based Comfort Meal

Chili is a classic comfort food that has warmed bellies and brought families together for generations. Traditionally made with ground beef or chicken, chili is versatile and easily adapted to a variety of dietary preferences. For those who follow a plant-based lifestyle or are simply looking to enjoy a lighter, healthier version of this beloved dish, our Vegan 1-Point White Chili recipe is the perfect option. It’s a delicious and filling plant-based alternative to the classic, offering all the warmth and richness of traditional chili while being entirely vegan, lower in calories, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

This version of white chili replaces chicken with hearty plant-based ingredients like white beans, cauliflower, and tofu, providing a satisfying, protein-packed meal. The spices blend together to create a rich, savory, and slightly spicy broth that envelops every bite, making this dish perfect for cold nights or whenever you’re craving comfort food. And at just 1 Weight Watchers point per serving, it’s a guilt-free option for those tracking their points while still craving a hearty bowl of chili.

Let’s dive into the recipe details and explore how this dish comes together, along with the health benefits and practical tips that will ensure your success in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan White Chili Recipe

  1. Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, so it’s great for those following a vegan diet. But it’s not just for vegans—this white chili is perfect for anyone looking to cut down on meat or incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
  2. Low in Points: With only 1 Weight Watchers point per serving, this white chili is an excellent choice for those following a calorie-conscious or point-based eating plan. It’s filling, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for weight management.
  3. Rich in Protein: Even without the chicken, this vegan chili is loaded with plant-based protein from ingredients like tofu, white beans, and cauliflower. These ingredients not only provide protein but also fiber, making the chili a balanced and nutritious meal.
  4. Packed with Nutrients: The main ingredients in this recipe are rich in vitamins and minerals. White beans are a good source of fiber, while cauliflower provides antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. Tofu adds an extra boost of plant-based protein, while spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties.
  5. Quick and Easy: While chili is often thought of as a slow-cooked dish, this recipe is quick and simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you can have a delicious bowl of vegan chili ready in about 30 minutes.
  6. Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge for a few days, and it’s even better the next day as the flavors meld. Make a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a healthy, satisfying meal ready to go. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can portion it out and freeze for later.

Ingredients for Vegan 1-Point White Chili:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small head of cauliflower, chopped into small florets
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, crumbled
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced green chilies (adds a slight heat and flavor)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (or more as needed to reach desired consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smokier flavor)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color and anti-inflammatory benefits)
  • Juice of 1 lime (adds a refreshing, tangy note)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional, for an extra kick)

Instructions for Vegan 1-Point White Chili:

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Tofu:

Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, and cauliflower into small pieces. The cauliflower should be chopped into small florets so that they cook down and blend easily into the chili. For the tofu, drain any excess liquid from the package and crumble it with your hands or a fork until it resembles ground meat. This will provide a similar texture to the chicken in traditional white chili.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This creates the flavor base for your chili and adds depth to the overall dish.

3. Add the Cauliflower and Tofu:

Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the chopped cauliflower florets and crumbled tofu to the pot. Stir everything together, and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tofu to slightly brown and the cauliflower to soften. The tofu will absorb the flavors of the sautéed aromatics and create a savory base for the chili.

4. Add the Spices:

Now it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, and let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes. This helps release the full depth of their flavors, adding warmth and a rich, earthy taste to the chili.

5. Add the Beans and Broth:

Next, add the white beans, diced green chilies, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the beans are evenly distributed. If you prefer a thinner chili, you can add more vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cauliflower to fully cook.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you prefer a stronger flavor or a little more heat. If you like a tangy kick, squeeze in the juice of 1 lime to brighten the dish. This will balance the richness of the tofu and beans while adding a fresh citrus note.

7. Serve and Garnish:

Once the chili is ready, remove it from the heat and ladle it into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. If you like a bit of extra heat, top with sliced jalapeños. For an added creamy touch, serve with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of vegan cheese, although this is entirely optional.

Meal Prep Tips and Storage:

  1. Meal Prep: This chili is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, and you’ll have lunch or dinner ready for the week. Store the chili in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  2. Freezing: If you want to make this dish in advance, it also freezes well. Once cooled, transfer the chili to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
  3. Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or corn for more texture and flavor. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or green chilies.

Nutritional Benefits:

This Vegan White Chili is loaded with nutrients that are beneficial for overall health:

  • High in Plant-Based Protein: With tofu and white beans as the main protein sources, this chili offers a good dose of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
  • Rich in Fiber: The white beans and cauliflower contribute to the fiber content, which is essential for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full for longer.
  • Packed with Antioxidants: Spices like turmeric and cumin are not only flavorful but also packed with antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support immune health.
  • Low in Calories and Points: At just 1 Weight Watchers point per serving, this chili is a great low-calorie, filling meal that won’t derail your health or fitness goals.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes About 6 Servings):

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
    • Dietary Fiber: 8g
    • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 460mg
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Weight Watchers Points: 1 point per serving

Conclusion:

This Vegan 1-Point White Chili is the perfect healthy, hearty, and flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with nutritious ingredients, and offers a satisfying comfort food experience without the guilt. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to try something new, this chili will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. So, get your ingredients ready and enjoy a warming bowl of chili that’s sure to please everyone at the table!