Jump To Recipeby Liz Thomson
January 6, 2023This post may contain affiliate links.
This rich and creamy white bean chili is made with cannellini beans, chickpeas, and salsa verde for a flavorful yet simple dish! By blending some of the beans into a broth, we create a hearty texture that makes this chili super satisfying.
Why I Love This Recipe
This white bean chili is delicious, and one of the reasons I love it so much is that it’s effortless to make. There’s just a bit of chopping required, and then you’ll have this soup simmering in no time. Blending some of the beans into the broth is a great trick for creating a chili that tastes thick and creamy but is still healthy. I added a touch of cream cheese to tame the spice and make this chili taste extra decadent. But it’s still relatively low in fat and high in protein and fiber! This recipe is also great for meal prep because it reheats well! I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, but it’ll last a few days in the fridge so it can be great for lunch leftovers!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil– A little olive oil helps enhance the flavor while softening the onion.
Onion– This helps build the base of the soup and add flavor.
Garlic– I love the added flavor of garlic to this broth, but you can use garlic powder if necessary.
Salsa verde– This is the backbone of the flavor, so be sure to use a high-quality brand. I like Herdez.
Vegetable broth– I prefer a “not chicken” style broth like the kind from Edward & Son’s. Watch the sodium, as broth can already be high in salt.
Sweet corn– This is a great way to balance out the spicy flavor of the salsa. Canned or frozen is fine. Be sure to drain the corn before adding it.
Cannellini beans– These creamy white beans are my favorite for this chili, but you can substitute them with white navy beans.
Chickpeas– Chickpeas add a source of plant-based protein, but you can double the cannellini beans instead of using chickpeas if you prefer.
What is Salsa Verde?
Salsa verde is a Mexican sauce made from green Tomatillos, chili peppers, and various herbs and spices. The sauce has a bright, acidic flavor and a slightly thicker consistency than other salsas. It is typically made by blending cooked and peeled Tomatillos, chili peppers, onion, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s a fantastic way to add lots of flavor to this chili!
My Favorite Salsa Verde Brands
My very favorite salsa verde is by Herdez. The salsa is sold in glass jars or cans at many grocery stores. Trader Joe’s and Frontera also make excellent salsa verde. I was not a fan of the Whole Foods 365 salsa verde, but it can work in a pinch.
How to Make White Bean Chili
originally posted January 6, 2023 (updated May 18, 2023)by Liz Thomson categories:Gluten Free, Soup12 comments
I admit, I had doubts while making this as to the flavor, but this is very good!
It’s so easy and ready in just a few minutes. Pair it with cornbread and you can’t go wrong on a quick and hearty meal. I used unsalted vegetable stock and organic frozen corn. So tasty!
I admit, I had doubts while making this as to the flavor, but this is very good!
It’s so easy and ready in just a few minutes. Pair it with cornbread and you can’t go wrong on a quick and hearty meal. I used unsalted vegetable stock and organic frozen corn. So tasty!