Plant-Based Chili Cheese Fries
Plant-Based Chili Cheese Fries pile crisp, golden potatoes under a robust TVP-and-bean chili, then finish with a creamy vegan cheddar sauce. Each bite balances smoky heat, gentle sweetness from molasses, and fresh pops of jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro. Serve for game day, casual dinners, or a fun weekend snack that feels hearty yet completely dairy-free.
- Prep30 mins
- Cook30 mins
- Serves4
- DifficultyMedium
- 1
Wash the potatoes and remove any discoloration or eyes, but do not peel them. Cut evenly into shoestring-style fries or use a French fry cutter. Place the fries in a large bowl and rinse with cool water until the water runs clear. Cover the fries with 1 inch of water, cover the bowl, and let stand for 30 minutes.
- 2
Place the TVP in a bowl and cover it with hot vegetable broth.
- 3
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; cook and stir until fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic. Add the TVP and broth. Stir in the tomatoes, drained beans, molasses, chili powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, smoked salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes.
- 4
Preheat an air fryer to 320 degrees F (160 degrees C). Drain the soaked potatoes and dry them with a clean towel. Return them to the bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and toss to coat.
- 5
Cook in the air fryer without disturbing for 18 minutes. Shake and cook for 6 minutes. Shake again and cook for another 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- 6
Combine the vegan Cheddar, soy milk, and vegan butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 360W for 30 seconds. Stir and check the consistency. If needed, add more soy milk and microwave for another 30 seconds. Stir briskly to make a creamy sauce.
- 7
Arrange the fries on a large platter. Spoon the chili on top. Pour the faux cheese sauce over the chili. Finish with onion, jalapeno rings, and cilantro on top.
- Calories 405.95 kcal High
- Protein 12.85 g Good Source
- Carbs 63.13 g Moderate
- Total Fat 12.99 g Moderate
- Saturated Fat 3.59 g Moderate
- Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Cholesterol 0.72 mg Low Source
- Sodium 614.25 mg High
- Fiber 9.21 g Good Source
- Sugar 7.86 g Moderate
- Added Sugar 0.13 g Low Source
- Calcium 258.31 mg Moderate
- Iron 3.91 mg Good Source
- Potassium 1305.29 mg Good Source
- Vitamin A 219.49 mcg_rae Good Source
- Vitamin C 43.54 mg Good Source
- Vitamin D 0.54 mcg Low Source
Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Soy 🌱
- Celery
- Tomatoes 🍅
- Garlic 🧄
- Onions 🧅