Savory Vegetarian Cashew Chili Delight
This Savory Vegetarian Cashew Chili Delight brings warmth and comfort to your table, especially during chilly winter months. Inspired by the Cabbagetown Cafe Cookbook by Julie Jordan, this hearty chili is a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and crunchy toasted cashews. The unique blend of black or kidney beans paired with the nutty flavor of cashews makes this vegetarian dish so satisfying; you'll forget it's meatless! Topped with crumbled cornbread, it's a delightful way to enjoy a bowl of chili that’s rich in flavor and texture, perfect for cozy gatherings or a wholesome family dinner.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
19
Ingredients
Ingredients
bay leaves
2 (whole)
canola oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
onions
2 (chopped)
garlic cloves
4 (smashed and finely chopped)
green peppers
2 (chopped)
celery ribs
2 (minced or chopped)
unsalted butter
1 tablespoon (for melting)
dried oregano
1 teaspoon (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
dried basil
1 teaspoon (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
dried dill
1 teaspoon (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
ground cumin
2 tablespoons (for flavor)
ground coriander
1 tablespoon (for flavor)
black pepper
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
cayenne
1/4 teaspoon (or 1 teaspoon chipotle powder)
salt
2 teaspoons (for seasoning)
canned whole tomatoes
1 quart (processed or cut to size preference (no diced or pureed))
black beans or kidney beans
2 (12 ounce) cans (undrained)
cashews
3/4 cup (toasted)
red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons (for flavor)
Instructions
1
In a large soup pot, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, smashed garlic, and bay leaves, sautéing for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
2
Incorporate the chopped green peppers and minced celery into the pot. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
3
Add the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt, then introduce the dried oregano, basil, dill, ground cumin, ground coriander, black pepper, cayenne (or chipotle powder), and salt. Sauté the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring to stir frequently to prevent burning and allow the spices to bloom.
4
Pour in the quart of whole canned tomatoes along with their juice, breaking the tomatoes into smaller pieces as you stir. Add the undrained black beans or kidney beans and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
5
While the chili is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cashews on a baking sheet and toast them for about 20 minutes or until they turn lightly golden and aromatic. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
6
Finally, stir the toasted cashews and red wine vinegar into the chili, letting it simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Serve hot, and for the best flavor experience, enjoy the chili the next day as it develops even deeper flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Vegetarian Cashew Chili Delight?
It is a hearty vegetarian chili made with a blend of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, beans, and crunchy toasted cashews.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the Cabbagetown Cafe Cookbook by Julie Jordan.
Is this chili recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it is a fully vegetarian dish that uses beans and cashews for protein.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by replacing the unsalted butter with additional oil or a plant-based butter alternative, the recipe becomes vegan.
What kind of beans are best for this chili?
You can use either black beans or kidney beans, or a combination of both.
Do I need to drain the beans before adding them?
No, the recipe specifies using two 12-ounce cans of undrained beans.
What type of canned tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for one quart of whole canned tomatoes with their juice, which you should break into smaller pieces.
How do I prepare the cashews for the chili?
Spread the cashews on a baking sheet and toast them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes until golden.
What vegetables are included in the base?
The base consists of chopped onions, green peppers, minced celery, and smashed garlic.
What spices give this chili its flavor?
The flavor profile includes ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, dried basil, dried dill, black pepper, and cayenne.
Is this chili spicy?
It has a mild kick from the cayenne or chipotle powder, which you can adjust to your preference.
Can I use chipotle powder instead of cayenne?
Yes, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne with 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smokier flavor.
Why is red wine vinegar added to the chili?
Red wine vinegar is added at the end to brighten the flavors and add a subtle tang.
How long should the chili simmer initially?
After adding the tomatoes and beans, let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
How long is the final simmer?
After adding the toasted cashews and vinegar, simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use 2 tablespoons of fresh oregano and basil, or 2 teaspoons of fresh dill instead of the dried versions.
What is the recommended serving suggestion?
It is delicious when served hot and topped with crumbled cornbread.
Does the flavor improve over time?
Yes, the chili develops deeper flavors if enjoyed the next day.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 4 smashed and finely chopped garlic cloves.
What type of oil should I use for sauteing?
Canola oil is recommended for sauteing the initial aromatics.
How many onions are required?
You will need 2 chopped onions for this recipe.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to bloom the spices.
What is the purpose of blooming the spices?
Sauteing the spices in butter for 1 to 2 minutes allows them to bloom, enhancing their aromatic qualities.
How many green peppers are used?
The recipe uses 2 chopped green peppers.
How much cumin is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of ground cumin.
Can I use pre-diced tomatoes?
The recipe specifically recommends whole canned tomatoes rather than diced or pureed versions for the best texture.
What amount of cashews is used?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of toasted cashews.
How much salt should I add?
You should add 2 teaspoons of salt for seasoning.
Are the bay leaves left in the chili?
Bay leaves are added during the initial saute, but they are typically removed before serving.
Is this a good recipe for winter?
Yes, its hearty and warm nature makes it perfect for chilly winter months.