If you’ve been searching for a protein-rich vegan meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and family-friendly, this recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen. Think of it as a cozy, chili-inspired dish—loaded with chickpeas, black beans, and a creamy dairy-free ricotta-style blend that makes every bite extra satisfying.
One of my favorite parts? It comes together so quickly thanks to the Instant Pot. With just a bit of prep, you’ll have a steaming pot of comfort food ready in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. That makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen.
I love meals like this because they check all the boxes: filling, nutrient-dense, and easy to make in a big batch. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a meal prep option for busy weeks, or something you can stash in the freezer for those nights when cooking feels impossible, this vegan chili-esque recipe has you covered.
The beans give it a big boost of plant-based protein, the creamy ricotta-style mixture adds richness, and the spices make it warm and flavorful without being overwhelming. Bonus: it tastes even better the next day (and the day after that!).
So, grab your favorite pot and let’s make this hearty, freezer-friendly vegan chili with chickpeas, black beans, and creamy ricotta goodness—a meal that proves comfort food and healthy eating can happily coexist.
Protein Packed Vegan Chili
Ingredients
Vegan Ricotta
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 medium jalapano finely chopped (or for a little more heat/flavour, I also recommend Ring of Fire peppers)
- 350 g block of firm tofu
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp EACH: salt, onion powder, garlic powder
Chili Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large sweet onion chopped
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup red lentils
- 2x 28oz cans fire roasted tomatoes
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 2x 15oz cans black beans drained (I sometimes sub one of the cans for white beans, also)
- 1x 15oz can chickpeas drained
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Optional Suggestions (for serving)
- sliced avocado
- red onion, chopped
- cilantro, chopped
- vegan sour cream
- tortilla chips
- vegan cheese
- cooked quinoa serve your chili atop a bed of quinoa for an even bigger protein whammy, if desired
Instructions
Prepare the ricotta
- In a food processor, process the dry cashews well until a fine meal is achieved. Then add the jalapeno and pulse to combine. Follow with the remaining Riccotta ingredients, pulsing until everything is well mixed. Reserve for later.
Prepare the Chili Base
- Using the "Saute" button on your Instant Pot, heat the Instant Pot and then when it's ready add the olive oil, garlic and onion. Saute until softened. About 5 minutes.
- Add the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt. Stir and continue cooking approximately another 30 seconds.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot, stirring well to incorporate all the ingredients together. Now put the lid on the Instant Pot and adjust the settings to "Pressure Cook" on high for 6 minutes. Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally.
- Now pour the chili base from the Instant Pot into a large mixing bowl. Add in the vegan ricotta mix, mixing in well until it's uniformly distributed.
- Serve on its own or atop a bed of fluffy quinoa, if desired. Top as desired. Enjoy!
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The Gentle Table doesn’t only provide phenomenal treat recipes, but also wonderfully delicious wholesome comfort foods. The family once again loved another of Heather’s recipes. We cannot wait to try them all!
Oh and the ricotta is out of this world, you have to try it.
The Gentle Table doesn’t only provide phenomenal treat recipes, but also wonderfully delicious wholesome comfort foods. The family once again loved another of Heather’s recipes. We cannot wait to try them all!
Oh and the ricotta is out of this world, you have to try it.
The Gentle Table doesn’t only provide phenomenal treat recipes, but also wonderfully delicious wholesome comfort foods. The family once again loved another of Heather’s recipes. We cannot wait to try them all!
Oh and the ricotta is out of this world, you have to try it.
Thanks so much for your kind words!
My family loved this!
[…] hearty vegan meals — think chili, stews, or casseroles — not only saves time, but also ensures nothing gets wasted. Plus, many […]