This creamy stovetop vegan white bean chili is everything you want in a comfort food dish: rich, hearty, and brimming with plant-based goodness. The combination of white beans, coconut milk, and warming spices creates a luxurious texture and depth of flavor that feels both cozy and satisfying. It’s a quick one-pot wonder, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. Topped with fresh lime juice and cilantro, this chili offers the perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and spice. Serve it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice for a complete meal that’s guaranteed to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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2 medium carrots, diced
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1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
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2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
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1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
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1 can (15 oz) full-fat coconut milk
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2 cups vegetable broth
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Juice of 1 lime
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, until softened.
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Stir in the diced poblano pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Add white beans, corn, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well.
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Season with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors are well combined.
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Stir in fresh lime juice just before serving.
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Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with tortilla chips or warm bread.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Comfort of a Bowl of Chili
There is something truly magical about a steaming bowl of chili. The way it warms you from the inside out, the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, and the satisfaction of scooping hearty spoonfuls on a chilly evening—it’s a dish that speaks to both the heart and the stomach. Traditionally, chili has been made with meat and heavy ingredients, but this creamy stovetop vegan white bean chili shows that comfort food can be completely plant-based and still every bit as indulgent and satisfying.
This recipe proves that you don’t need animal products to create a flavorful, protein-rich, and deeply nourishing meal. Instead, with white beans, coconut milk, fresh vegetables, and a carefully balanced blend of spices, you can have a dish that checks every box: comforting, hearty, nutritious, and simple enough for busy weeknights.
A Vegan Twist on Classic Chili
When most people think of chili, they picture a tomato-based, red-hued stew loaded with beef or chicken. While those versions are delicious, they often leave little room for dietary flexibility. By reimagining chili in this creamy white bean form, you get all the warming, hearty vibes of traditional chili with a fresh plant-based twist.
White beans serve as the star ingredient here. They are naturally creamy when cooked, and when paired with coconut milk, they form a luxurious base that feels silky on the palate. The poblano pepper adds a mild, smoky heat, while carrots, celery, and onions bring sweetness and depth. Each spoonful is balanced: comforting without being heavy, flavorful without being overwhelming.
The beauty of this vegan version is its versatility. It’s a one-pot recipe that works beautifully for meal prep, family dinners, or even entertaining guests. By swapping out animal proteins for nutrient-dense beans and vegetables, this chili proves that vegan comfort food can stand tall next to its meaty counterparts.
The Nutritional Power of White Beans
White beans are a nutritional powerhouse, making this chili more than just comfort food—it’s a dish that nourishes your body with every bite. They are rich in plant-based protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle health and energy levels, especially for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Beans are also loaded with dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full for longer. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to manage weight or simply maintain a balanced diet. On top of that, white beans are packed with micronutrients like folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium—all vital for energy production and overall well-being.
Pairing beans with vegetables in this recipe further boosts the nutritional value. Carrots bring beta-carotene for eye health, celery provides hydration and minerals, and poblano peppers deliver antioxidants along with a mild heat that makes the dish lively and delicious.
The Role of Coconut Milk in Plant-Based Cooking
Coconut milk is the secret ingredient that gives this chili its luscious, creamy texture. Unlike dairy cream, coconut milk is completely vegan and free of lactose, making it a perfect alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
What makes coconut milk special is not just its richness but also its nutritional profile. It contains healthy fats, known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which the body metabolizes differently from other fats, providing a quick and sustainable source of energy. These fats can also help promote satiety, meaning you’ll feel satisfied with your meal without needing to overeat.
In this chili, coconut milk melds beautifully with the spices, creating a balanced flavor that’s both comforting and refreshing. It tones down the heat of the poblano pepper, enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and helps the beans create that creamy base that makes every bite indulgent.
Why This Chili Is Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this creamy stovetop vegan white bean chili is how well it holds up for meal prep. Many people struggle to find vegan meals that store well and taste just as good reheated, but this dish is a winner in every respect.
The flavors actually deepen overnight as the spices and ingredients continue to meld together. By the next day, you’ll find that the chili has become even more flavorful, making it an excellent option for weekly meal planning. Simply portion it into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage.
For busy professionals, students, or families with hectic schedules, this chili can be a lifesaver. A quick reheat on the stove or in the microwave is all you need to enjoy a nourishing, comforting meal without the fuss of daily cooking. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even a simple side salad, and you have a complete dinner ready in minutes.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste
Another reason this recipe stands out is its flexibility. While it’s delicious exactly as written, it also welcomes creativity and personalization. For example, you can adjust the spice level by swapping the poblano pepper for jalapeños if you want more heat, or use bell peppers for a milder option.
Want to add more protein? Toss in an extra can of beans or stir in some cooked lentils. Craving extra greens? A handful of chopped spinach or kale stirred in at the end works beautifully and boosts the nutritional profile even further.
This chili also pairs well with a variety of toppings. Think avocado slices for creaminess, pumpkin seeds for crunch, vegan sour cream for tang, or even pickled jalapeños for a punch of flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe that you can tailor to your mood, the season, or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
For families, this recipe is a fantastic way to introduce children to plant-based meals without them missing the presence of meat or dairy. The creamy texture and mild flavor profile make it appealing to kids, while the bright garnish of cilantro and lime adds enough freshness to satisfy adults.
When entertaining, this chili is a great centerpiece because it suits a wide variety of dietary needs. It’s naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it accessible for guests with different preferences and restrictions. Serve it with a toppings bar where everyone can customize their bowl, and you’ve got a meal that feels interactive and festive.
Seasonal Comfort All Year Round
Although chili is often associated with cold weather, this creamy white bean version is versatile enough to be enjoyed all year. In the winter, it warms you up with its hearty beans and spices, while in the summer, it works beautifully as a lighter chili that doesn’t feel overly heavy. The coconut milk keeps it refreshing, while the lime juice adds brightness that feels perfect even on warmer days.
This adaptability makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again, no matter the season. It’s comforting without being seasonal-specific, which is a rare quality in many chili recipes.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Collection
The best recipes are the ones that strike a balance between flavor, nutrition, and convenience, and this creamy stovetop vegan white bean chili checks all those boxes. It’s nourishing enough to serve as a regular weeknight meal, flavorful enough to serve at gatherings, and simple enough for even beginner cooks to master.
It also highlights how plant-based cooking can be just as rich, creamy, and satisfying as traditional recipes. You don’t need cheese or meat to create a dish that feels indulgent. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can transform humble beans and vegetables into a meal that brings comfort and joy to the table.
Conclusion
This creamy stovetop vegan white bean chili is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of plant-based cooking at its finest. With its silky coconut milk base, hearty beans, and warming spices, it delivers both flavor and nutrition in every bite. It’s versatile enough for meal prep, customizable to fit your preferences, and welcoming to eaters of all ages and dietary needs. If you’re looking for a dish that proves vegan meals can be both deeply satisfying and nourishing, this chili is the answer. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a household favorite, not just because it tastes amazing but because it embodies the very essence of comfort food—warm, hearty, and made with love.