The only canned soup I ever grab at Trader Joe's

Why I Can't Leave Trader Joe's Without Picking Up the Organic Vegetarian Chili

Whether it's Texas-style, Cincinnati, vegetarian, or another variation, one thing is true for all chilis: This dish thrives on slow cooking. The abundance of spices and seasonings means the flavors need time to meld together, which is why chili often tastes even better as leftovers the next day.

While I can appreciate a homemade chili, I'll admit: it's not something I typically make. I'm more inclined to throw together easy soups like creamy carrot and ginger, or a quick chicken noodle with leftover chicken. For me, chili is more of a weekend cooking project. But in the middle of a busy week — especially in winter — I often crave it.

I've sampled a lot of canned vegetarian chilis from various brands, but Trader Joe's takes the top spot. The ingredient list is packed with wholesome veggies, just how I like it. Each cup contains a solid 15 grams of protein, thanks to the red beans and pea protein blend, so I'm satisfied for longer (though if I do get hungry later, that's what my Trader Joe's snack stash is for). It's also delightfully thick and creamy, thanks to a touch of cornstarch.

Elevating My Trader Joe's Vegetarian Chili

Although I usually enjoy my TJ chili straight from the can, I love adding a few extras. Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a generous sprinkle of shredded Cheddar all enhance the mild spice of this chili. Though I'm not vegetarian, I do love my veggies — and sometimes I even add crumbled bacon on top for a bit of extra flavor.

Is this canned chili better than something homemade? Maybe not. But it's so much quicker, and on a busy weeknight, that's good enough for me!