Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also good for you? Then look no further! This hearty lentil chili is the perfect answer, especially on a chilly evening. This recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. It's also a fantastic way to incorporate more legumes into your diet, fulfilling that pesky crossword clue! Forget canned chili; this homemade cooking masterpiece is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your chili.
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Add the lentils and broth: Stir in the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
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Incorporate beans and tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, or a dollop of plain yogurt. This delicious dish is perfect as a satisfying standalone meal or served with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lentil Chili:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 25-minute mark and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it entirely.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This is one of the best recipes for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Meat lovers' chili: Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey to the pot along with the onions and cook until browned before proceeding with the recipe.
- Vegetarian chili: If you're looking for a fully vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and continue with the recipe as directed.
- Spicy chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 15-20g
This lentil chili is a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's a great example of healthy meals made easy, showing that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Enjoy!