WELLNESS WEDNESDAY: Huntsville couple embraces plant-based eating with hearty vegan walnut chili recipe

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — This chilly weather in the month of January would go great with a bowl of chili!

This Wellness Wednesday, FOX54’s Keneisha Deas has the pleasure of introducing you to a Huntsville couple who are passionate about a plant-based lifestyle. They share that embracing a plant-based diet has played a major role in their health journey.

This feature also comes in recognition of Veganuary, a 31-day pledge to avoid meat, dairy, eggs, and honey, and explore the benefits of plant-based eating.

Meet the chefs and owners of CKB 360 Wellness: Wymillian and Gerald Cobb!

CKB360 Wellness holds special meaning. CKB stands for Cobb Kingdom Builder, inspired by Wymillian and Gerald’s family name. They say their wellness journey began during the pandemic in 2020, when many people started rethinking what health, nourishment, and comfort truly look like.

Chefs Wymillian and Gerald share one of their favorite comfort foods, vegan walnut chili. As the weather cools down, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of chili. And yes, you can enjoy chili that’s completely plant-based and still rich, hearty, and satisfying.

According to the Cobbs, Walnuts make an excellent meat substitute in vegan chili. When soaked and blended, they create a texture that’s surprisingly similar to ground meat while adding healthy fats and nutrients.

• 1 can pinto beans (or red beans), drained and rinsed

• 1 white onion, chopped

• 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 fresh tomato, chopped

• 1 cup raw walnuts, soaked and blended

• Chili seasonings of your choice (chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper)

• Avocado oil for sautéing

1. Prepare the walnuts: Soak the raw walnuts in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain and blend until crumbly. This will be your plant-based “meat.”

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little avocado oil. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper until fragrant and softened.

3. Add the walnuts: Stir in the blended walnuts, mixing well with the vegetables to build flavor and texture.

4. Add beans and tomatoes: Add the pinto beans and chopped fresh tomato. Stir everything together.

5. Season and simmer: Add your favorite chili seasonings. Let the chili simmer on low heat for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Taste and adjust: Stir, stir, stir! Adjust seasoning as needed.

Who said you can’t enjoy chili and still be plant-based? This chili is 100% derived from plants—no meat, no compromise on flavor. One spoonful in, and you’ll know… that’s good.

This Vegan Walnut Chili is simple, comforting, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, plant-based meal without sacrificing taste. This is a recommended recipe whether you’re vegan or just trying something new.