A comforting bowl of white chili can be the perfect meal for cooler weather. This quick and easy white chili recipe replaces traditional beef with ground pork for a delightful twist. The spices and green chiles give it a big flavor that's tempered by creamy beans and melted cheese. It's a simple dish to prepare and is sure to become a family favorite.
Photos of Quick and Easy White Chili Recipe
This recipe requires canned green chiles and great northern beans. The green chiles add a mild heat and distinct flavor to the chili. They are often sold in small cans in the international or Mexican food aisle. The great northern beans, which are a type of white bean, contribute to the creaminess and heartiness of the chili. They can be found in the canned beans section.
Ingredients for Quick and Easy White Chili
Ground pork: A versatile ingredient that adds flavor and protein to the chili.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
Onions: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the chili.
Garlic: Infuses the chili with a rich, aromatic flavor.
Green chiles: Brings a mild heat to the dish.
Ground cumin: Provides a warm and earthy flavor.
Oregano: Gives the chili a hint of sweetness and complexity.
Chicken broth: The base of the soup, adding a rich and savory flavor.
Great northern beans: Contributes to the heartiness and creaminess of the chili.
Monterey jack cheese: Melts into the chili for a smooth and creamy finish.
One reader, Erny Canfield says:
This quick and easy white chili recipe is a game-changer! It's so simple to make and tastes amazing. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the addition of the cheese at the end takes it to a whole new level. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a winner!
Key Techniques for Making Quick and Easy White Chili
How to cook and drain the pork: Cook the ground pork in a skillet over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and set the cooked pork aside.
How to sauté onions and garlic: In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become transparent and fragrant.
How to incorporate chilies, cumin, and oregano: After the onions and garlic are sautéed, add the green chiles, ground cumin, and oregano to the pot. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
How to simmer the chili: Once the broth, cooked pork, and beans are added to the pot, bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the chili uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
How to melt cheese into the chili: After removing the pot from the heat, gradually add the Monterey Jack cheese to the chili, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the dish.
How To Make Quick and Easy White Chili
This white chili is hot and spicy as well as tasty with the mix of pork and herbs produce a balanced flavor. The cheese adds to the creaminess of the dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground pork
- 2tbspolive oil
- 2onions,chopped
- 5clovesgarlic,chopped
- 2cansgreen chiles,(4 oz), diced
- 2tspground cumin
- 1tsporegano,dried
- 4cupschicken broth
- 14.5ozgreat Northern beans,rinsed and drained
- 2cupsMonterey Jack Cheese,shredded
Instructions
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Cook and drain the pork.
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In a large stockpot, saute onions and garlic in olive oil until transparent. Stir in the chilies, cumin, and oregano.
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Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes more.
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Add broth, pork, and beans; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 20 minutes.
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Remove from heat, and stir in the cheese until melted.
Nutrition
- Calories: 435.10kcal
- Fat: 27.36g
- Saturated Fat: 11.71g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.50g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.20g
- Carbohydrates: 22.12g
- Fiber: 4.30g
- Sugar: 4.15g
- Protein: 25.50g
- Cholesterol: 73.79mg
- Sodium: 852.69mg
- Calcium: 325.91mg
- Potassium: 633.58mg
- Iron: 3.17mg
- Vitamin A: 72.03µg
- Vitamin C: 26.53mg
Mastering the Art of White Chili: A Technique Tip
When sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil, ensure you keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. This will prevent them from burning and will bring out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the flavor of your white chili. Additionally, when adding the cheese, remove the pot from the heat first. This will allow the cheese to melt slowly and evenly, preventing it from clumping or becoming rubbery.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing White Chili
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out spices, and cook the pork in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned beans instead of dried ones to save time on soaking and cooking.
One-pot wonder: Make the chili in a single pot to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Quick cheese melting: Grate the cheese in advance and add it to the hot chili for quick and easy melting.
Double batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra portions for quick and convenient future meals.
Substitute Ingredients For Quick and Easy White Chili Recipe
ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground pork in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral-flavored substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used as a substitute for onions, adding a slightly different taste to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, although the flavor may be slightly different.
green chiles - Substitute with jalapenos: Jalapenos can be used as a substitute for green chiles, adding a similar level of heat and flavor to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can be used as a substitute for ground cumin, adding a different depth of flavor to the chili.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian alternative to the recipe.
great northern beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans can be used as a substitute for great northern beans, offering a similar texture and taste to the dish.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese can be used as a substitute for monterey jack cheese, adding a spicy kick to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Quick and Easy White Chili
Elevate the plating: When presenting the white chili, consider using a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The contrast of the white chili against the bowl will create an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the top of the white chili with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. The vibrant green hues will enhance the visual appeal of the chili.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small handful of crispy tortilla strips or crumbled cornbread on top of the white chili. This will provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy chili base.
Accentuate with a drizzle: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of sour cream or a vibrant avocado cream over the white chili. The addition of this artistic touch will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of richness to the dish.
Utilize color contrast: Consider serving the white chili alongside a vibrant side dish, such as a colorful mixed salad or a bright mango salsa. The contrast of colors will make the white chili stand out and create a visually stunning presentation.
Essential Tools for Making White Chili
- Large stockpot: A large, deep pot used for cooking soups, stews, and boiling liquids.
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
- Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Storing and Freezing White Chili for Later
- Let the white chili cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the chili, consider portioning it into individual serving sizes for easier thawing and reheating later.
- Use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags to store the chili in the freezer. Make sure to leave some headspace in the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- When stored properly in the freezer, the white chili will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months, although it will remain safe to eat beyond that time.
- To reheat the frozen chili, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer the thawed chili to a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a little chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency if it has thickened during freezing.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chili directly in the microwave. Transfer the frozen chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chili is heated through.
Reheating Leftover White Chili: Tips and Tricks
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover white chili to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. if the chili appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out. heat until the chili is warmed through and gently simmering.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover white chili in a microwave-safe bowl. cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chili is heated through and steaming.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover white chili to a slow cooker and set it to low heat. cover and allow the chili to reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through and gently simmering. this method is ideal for larger quantities of leftover chili and helps maintain its texture and flavor.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). transfer the leftover white chili to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili is heated through and gently simmering. stir the chili halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Garnish and serve: once the white chili is reheated, ladle it into serving bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. serve the reheated chili with a side of warm tortilla chips or cornbread for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Interesting Fact About White Chili
White chili is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes. It can be made with chicken, turkey, or pork, and the level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less green chiles. Additionally, white chili can be served with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, avocado, or tortilla strips to add extra flavor and texture. This dish is a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal that can be tailored to their preferences.
The Economics of Homemade White Chili
This white chili recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground pork, great northern beans, and chicken broth, are reasonably priced and readily available. The use of pork and cheese may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense for a household of four should be around $20-$25. The dish offers a hearty and flavorful meal, making it a great value for money. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste.
Is This White Chili Recipe Healthy?
This white chili recipe has some healthy elements, but it also contains ingredients that may not be considered nutritious:
- Ground pork is a good source of protein, but it can be high in saturated fat.
- Olive oil is a healthy fat, but the recipe uses 2 tablespoons, which can add up in calories.
- Onions and garlic are nutritious and provide flavor without adding many calories.
- Green chiles are low in calories and provide vitamin C and other nutrients.
- Cumin and oregano are healthy spices that add flavor without adding calories.
- Chicken broth is a good base for the chili, but it can be high in sodium.
- Great northern beans are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and other nutrients.
- Monterey jack cheese adds flavor and calcium, but it is also high in saturated fat and calories.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use lean ground pork or substitute with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used or replace some of it with a low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on calories.
- Choose a low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
- Add more vegetables to the chili, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content while keeping the calorie count in check.
- Serve the chili with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Quick and Easy White Chili Recipe
This quick and easy white chili recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground pork, green chiles, and aromatic spices creates a rich and comforting base, while the addition of creamy monterey jack cheese adds a luxurious finish. The recipe's simplicity makes it perfect for a busy weeknight, and the use of great northern beans adds a healthy touch. Overall, this white chili is a satisfying and flavorful dish that is sure to please the whole family.
Enhance Your Quick and Easy White Chili Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to White Chili
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement White Chili
Why trust this Quick and Easy White Chili Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic chili, featuring ground pork for a rich and savory flavor. The combination of green chiles and aromatic spices like cumin and oregano adds depth to the dish. With the addition of great northern beans and monterey jack cheese, this hearty white chili promises a satisfying and comforting meal. Trust the balance of flavors and the simplicity of preparation to elevate your dining experience.
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