The Canned Vegetarian Chili That Packs A Big Protein Punch

Temperatures are dropping and the season is slowly creeping into that phase of winter where just stepping out of your house will hit you with a mean gust of dry, icy air. This is the time of the year when you'll look towards warm, filling meals to make up for the cold-hearted winter weather — and there's truly nothing like treating yourself to a bowl of hot chili after shoveling your car out of the snow. Only this year, research by Acosta suggests that more people will be looking for meatless alternatives.

Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, or simply want to limit the amount of meat in your diet, there's a canned chili option out there for you. However, one brand is guaranteed to be your new go-to — not only because it's loaded with the heart-warming chili flavor we all look for, but because it's also packed with a high amount of nutritious plant-based protein. Chili lovers may have preconceived beliefs about vegetarian versions, but you'll soon be stocking your pantry with this canned staple.

Organic food brand Amy's offers six different varieties of its vegetarian and vegan-friendly canned chili. From spicy to medium and from low fat to light sodium, each one is guaranteed organic, dairy-free, and gluten-free, per Go Dairy Free. However, there is one particular variety that The Spruce Eats recommends: Amy's Organic Medium Chili. Made from a base of red beans and tofu, simmered with bell peppers in a Mexican broth, Amy's Organic Medium Chili packs all the heartiness you need to get through this winter. 

With 26 grams of protein, 13 grams of fiber, and high amounts of calcium, iron, and potassium, all packed into one can, Amy's Organic Medium Chili will keep you warm from the inside out. All it takes is a couple of minutes in the microwave or on the stovetop, a dollop of sour cream, cheese — with the option to use your favorite vegan versions, of course — and a topping of freshly chopped cilantro. 

Cans of it, along with Amy's other varieties, can be found at Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, and Walmart (via Amy's Kitchen).