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Lentil Chili Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

This hearty Lentil Chili is a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying plant-based meal perfect for any day. Made with lentils, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices, it's a wholesome chili that is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. Ideal as a comforting dinner, it offers a thick, rich texture and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (plus more as desired)
  • 1 cup uncooked lentils
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon baking cocoa
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until hot. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the vegetable broth, uncooked lentils, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, baking cocoa, salt, black pepper, chili powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and fully cooked through.
  4. Adjust Consistency: After the lentils have cooked, check the thickness of the chili. Add additional vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner, more soupy consistency. Stir well and heat through if added.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chili from heat and serve hot. Top with your favorite chili toppings such as chopped onions, avocado, cheese, or sour cream if desired. Enjoy this comforting and healthy lentil chili!

Notes

  • Rinsing canned beans helps reduce sodium content and removes excess starch.
  • You can adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder.
  • For a smokier flavor, consider adding smoked paprika.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth or simmer uncovered for a few minutes at the end.
  • This chili stores well and tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/lentil-chili-recipe/