4 Mouthwatering Ways to Customize Your Chili

Chili is a great way to thaw out when the weather turns cold. Whether you prepare it at home or buy it ready-to-serve, there are endless styles of meat and plant-based chilis to enjoy.

Our new plant-based chilis are delicious and filling on their own. But sometimes it’s nice to mix things up. Here, you’ll find all sorts of ideas to elevate your chili game, from adding mouthwatering toppings to serving with delectable side dishes.

1. Add Chili to Your Baked Potato Bar

Typical toppings for a baked potato bar include shredded cheese, sour cream and diced veggies. But if you really want to dazzle your guests with a richer food experience, add a steaming pot of plant-based chili.

What kind of chili goes well with baked potatoes? You don’t have to limit yourself to a single option, especially if you have a large number of guests. With our plant-based chilis, it’s easy to have two or three chili choices all at once! Simply open the can and heat it up.

You can’t go wrong no matter what kind of chili you use. Plant-based chilis feature an array of ingredients, including beans, veggies and spices that will compliment your baked potatoes and add depth to your meal. Here are some favorite options:

• Harvest Black Bean: Add some protein to your potatoes with our creamy Harvest Black Bean Chili. Black beans are combined with sweet potatoes, ancient grains and zesty peppers. The result is a robust flavor that will satisfy even the most demanding chili lover.
• Fire-Roasted Vegetable: This smoky chili is a perfect accompaniment to any baked potato bar. Our Fire-Roasted Vegetable Chili has a unique blend of fire-roasted veggies, sweet potatoes, pinto and kidney beans and spices.
• White Bean Verde: Our White Bean Verde Chili offers an invigorating blend of white beans, chickpeas, cilantro and roasted poblano peppers. The combination of flavors and textures creates a fresh-tasting chili with just the right amount of heat.

2. Top Off Your Chili to Create Unique Flavor Combinations

When it comes to chili toppings, there are tons of creative combinations outside of shredded cheese and crackers. Since chili is so versatile, it gives you a lot of room to play with different ingredients. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Spicy peppers: If you prefer a hotter chili, try adding sliced peppers. If you like a milder heat level, go for banana or poblano peppers. If you like to live more daringly, dice up some spicy jalapeno peppers to sprinkle on top. For some added texture and a satisfying crunch, use fresh peppers in place of canned.
• Lime and cilantro: Adding lime juice and cilantro to your chili gives it a fresh and bright flavor. Limes are tangy and acidic, which naturally boosts the already-present flavors in chili and balances out any heat. Cilantro has a light, citrusy taste that pairs well with the strong flavors of chili without overpowering it. Plus, the rich green color adds some appetizing vibrance to your dish!
• Cornbread pie topping: The next time you make a savory Cornbread Pie, use it as a soft, buttery and sweet topping.
• Sourdough croutons: Try making these easy Homemade Sourdough Croutons to add a delightful crunch to your chili bowl. Sprinkled with black pepper, Italian seasoning and red chili flakes, this topping will give your chili an added dose of comfort.
• Parmesan soup toppers: Cheese in any form mixes splendidly with chili, but have you ever tried baked cheese? All you need is 15 minutes to create these Crispy Parmesan Soup Toppers that will instantly elevate your chili. Along with a dash of black pepper, you get a crunchy topping with a sharp, cheesy flavor that will mesmerize your tastebuds.

3. Add a Side to Round Out Your Meal

Chili is delicious on its own, but having a side dish can make it extra satisfying. Both lighter side dishes and hearty foods go well with a bowl of chili. Whatever kind of mood you’re in, you can easily round out your meal with a variety of sides, such as:

• Salads: After a helping of chili, cleanse your palette with a colorful side salad. For a bright, tangy flavor, try making this Lemon Tahini with Kale Salad. The citrusy lemon tahini dressing, leafy kale and delicate purple cabbage make this salad super refreshing.
• Biscuits: You can never go wrong with warm, flaky biscuits. These Dairy-Free Rosemary Biscuits are great for dipping into any kind of chili.

4. Use Chili as a Topping or Mix It With Another Dish

Chili doesn’t always have to be the main event. When used as a topping or mixed with another dish, it can add new life to your meal. The next time you want a robust feast, try adding your favorite chili to the following:

• Chili dogs: Whether it’s hot dogs, vegan dogs, or bratwurst, a thick layer of chili on top brings this backyard staple to new heights. Or, cut up your dogs and mix them with your steaming pot of chili. To jazz it up even more, add your favorite chili toppings such as diced jalapenos or a dollop of sour cream.
• Savory waffles: Waffles for dinner? Yes, please! These Savory Mashed Potato Waffles pair beautifully with chili and can be made in 20 minutes. Bake a simple batter of mashed potatoes, eggs, broth, and cheddar cheese in your waffle iron. Then, scoop your favorite chili on top and enjoy!
• Mac and cheese: Chili with mac and cheese is a match made in heaven. And with this Vegan Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese, you can enjoy a rich meal while still going plant-based. Simply follow the recipe and mix in your heated chili at the end.

Warm Up This Winter With Ready-to-Serve Chili From Pacific Foods

When you need a hearty, comforting dish for your table this season, look no further than Pacific Foods. Our plant-based chilis are packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients. Plus we offer soups, broths and beverages for all your at-home cooking needs. Find your favorites by shopping our products today.