Vegan Loaded Chili Baked Potato

The cool weather ahead has me dreaming of vegan chili on the weekends. Hearty, warm, and cozy. Even better, a baked potato overflowing with chili and toppings! I think we can all agree that a loaded baked potato is always a good idea. This recipe features textured vegetable protein (TVP). Have you ever used it? If not, this is a great ground meat substitute and is very easy to prepare (you'll see below). If you are not familiar, Bob's Red Mill carries it. I encourage you to check it out and give it a go! If you do not have it readily available, you can always sub the TVP for some kidney or pinto beans or even tempeh. They all work beautifully!

Vegan Loaded Chili Baked Potato

Recipe Type: Hearty Entrees

YIELDS 2-4 servings

PREP TIME 10 min

COOK TIME 01 hour 00 min

TOTAL TIME 01 hour 10 min

2-4 large potatoes
1/2 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP)
1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup button mushrooms, diced
6 oz can tomato paste
18 oz water (or 3 water-filled tomato paste cans – hack!)
1 teaspoon chili powder
dash of cayenne pepper
dash of garlic powder
dash of paprika
dash of cumin
salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup raw cashews
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
squeeze of lemon
1/4 cup warm water
1 avocado, sliced
1 scallion, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Poke holes with a fork into your potatoes and bake at 400°F for 1 hour, or until soft. If you are strapped for time, you can also microwave on high for 5 minutes.

3. While waiting for potatoes to finish, start your chili. Put your textured vegetable protein (TVP) into a small bowl and add boiling water. Let sit for 10 minutes.

4. In a pan over medium heat, add chickpeas and mushrooms with a bit of water to avoid sticking. Sauté for about 3 minutes before adding in the can of tomato paste and water. Stir well until everything is blended.

5. Once TVP is done, drain and add to your chickpea and mushroom mix. Stir well until combined – add more water if necessary for consistency. Add all spices and seasonings and give another quick stir before covering, setting to simmer, and letting cook for about 15-20 more minutes.

6. For sour cream sauce, add cashews, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and warm water to your blender. Blend until smooth and creamy – add more water if necessary for consistency.

7. Once everything is done, put together! First slice potato in half and mash up a bit. Top with your chili, drizzle with sour cream, add avocado, and garnish with scallion.

Also by Bianca: End of Summer Vegan Grilled Pizza

Oil-Free Oven-Baked Shoestring Fries

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Photos: Bianca Cimini