Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Tofu and Bean Chili?
It is a satisfying vegan dish featuring a trio of beans, corn, and super firm tofu spiced with chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon.
Is this chili recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
What type of tofu should I use for this chili?
The recipe recommends using 14 ounces of Wildwood Hi-Protein Super Firm Tofu for the best texture.
Do I need to press the tofu?
Yes, you should drain the tofu and press it gently to remove excess moisture before crumbling it.
How do I prepare the tofu for the pot?
You can crumble the tofu into bite-sized pieces or mash it with a fork depending on your preference.
What kinds of beans are in this recipe?
This chili uses a combination of pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans.
Should the beans be drained?
Yes, all the canned beans (pinto, kidney, and black) should be drained before adding them to the pot.
How long does it take to cook the chili?
The chili should cook over medium-high heat for about 30 minutes.
How can I make the chili thicker?
You can mash the tofu slightly with a wooden spoon as it cooks to achieve a thicker consistency.
What spices are used in this chili?
The recipe uses chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and a hint of ground cinnamon.
Why is cinnamon included in the recipe?
Ground cinnamon adds a unique depth of flavor and warmth that complements the chili powder and cumin.
Can I use taco seasoning instead of individual spices?
Yes, you can substitute two packages of taco seasoning mix for the chili powder, cumin, and salt.
Does this recipe include corn?
Yes, one 15-ounce can of drained corn is added to the chili.
Is the chili high in protein?
Yes, it is packed with protein from the super firm tofu and the variety of beans used.
What are the best toppings for this chili?
It is delicious served with avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it is an ideal dish for meal-prepping for the week as the flavors often improve over time.
How much chili powder is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of ground chili powder.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
The recipe specifies canned diced tomatoes, but you can use fresh if you adjust the liquid content.
What heat setting should I use?
The chili should be cooked over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe that mainly involves combining ingredients in a single stockpot.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of ground cumin.
Is this chili considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, plant-based, and protein-packed meal.
Do I need to soak the beans first?
No, because the recipe uses canned beans, no soaking is required.
Can I use different types of beans?
While the recipe calls for pinto, kidney, and black beans, you can swap them for other varieties like navy beans.
Should I drain the corn?
Yes, the corn should be canned and drained before being added to the mixture.
Is the tofu cooked before adding it to the pot?
No, the crumbled tofu is added raw to the stockpot and cooks along with the beans and tomatoes.
How many cans of tomatoes are used?
The recipe calls for one 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes.
Can I add more salt?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of salt, but you can adjust this to your personal taste.
What equipment do I need?
You will primarily need a large stockpot and a wooden spoon for stirring and mashing.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level from the chili powder, which can be adjusted to your preference.