“Where have you been all my life, chili?” Three plant-based toppers to brighten, balance and finish your bowl beautifully. Designed to add texture, flavor, and contrast to chili, grain bowls, and cozy plant-forward meals.
Servings: Enough topping for 4–6 bowls
Time: 5–10 minutes (plus optional chilling)
1. Lime Crema (Two Ways)
Cashew-Lime Crema (rich & silky)
Ingredients
- ½ cup raw cashews, soaked 2–4 hours or quick-boiled 10 minutes
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove or ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼–⅓ cup water (adjust for thickness)
Method
- Add all ingredients to a blender.
- Blend until silky smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
- Adjust lime, salt, and water to taste.
- Chill 20–30 minutes to thicken (optional).
Silken Tofu Lime Crema (nut-free & high-protein)
Ingredients
- ½ cup silken tofu
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (add more to brighten)
- 1 small garlic clove or ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1–2 tsp real maple syrup, optional but balances the lime beautifully
- Optional upgrades: lime zest, 1–2 tsp nutritional yeast, pinch cumin or smoked paprika
Method
- Pat tofu lightly with a paper towel, do not press.
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and glossy.
- Taste and adjust, silken tofu loves extra lime and salt.
- Chill to thicken.
2. Vegan Parm Sprinkle
Your chili’s bestie: salty, crunchy, umami-rich.
Ingredients
- ½ cup hemp seeds, almond meal, or cashews
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: pinch chili powder, lime zest, smoked paprika
Method
- Add all ingredients to a small blender or food processor.
- Pulse until crumbly and well combined.
- Taste and adjust salt or zest.
- Store in an airtight jar up to 2 weeks.
3. Bright Finishers (Pick One or Layer All Three)
- Fresh cilantro or scallions
- A squeeze of lime
- Pickled red onions
- Toasted pepitas or hemp seeds
How to Use Your Chili Top Trio
- Build your bowl with chili.
- Add a dollop or drizzle of lime crema (cashew or tofu).
- Sprinkle generously with vegan parm.
- Finish with fresh herbs or a pop of lime.
- Pause and whisper: “Where have you been all my life, chili?”
Taste & Texture Notes
- Cashew lime crema is rich and silky, adding body and mellow acidity.
- Silken tofu crema is lighter, tangy, and high-protein with a clean finish.
- Vegan parm brings saltiness and crunch without heaviness.
- Bright finishers add freshness and contrast, especially for smoky or rich dishes.
Make It Yours
- Use lemon instead of lime for a softer citrus note.
- Add smoked paprika or cumin for extra depth.
- Thin crema with water or plant milk for a drizzleable sauce.
