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Lentil Chili for Every Occasion

Lentil Chili for Every Occasion

Hearty lentil chili simmered with tomatoes, beans, and warm spices. Cozy, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 0.75 cup diced carrot
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 28 oz diced tomatoes do not drain
  • 4 cup vegetable broth low-sodium if possible
  • 1.5 cup dry brown or green lentils rinsed
  • 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 0.25 tsp chipotle chili powder optional heat
  • 1.25 tsp fine sea salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice to finish
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Sauté onion, carrot, and bell pepper until softened, 5 to 6 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook 1 minute to bloom.
  • Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, until slightly darkened, about 1 minute.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and the broth; stir to combine.
  • Add lentils and chipotle powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
  • Simmer partially covered, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Stir in kidney beans and cook 5 to 8 minutes more to thicken.
  • Finish with salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Serve hot and garnish with cilantro. Add your favorite chili toppings if you like.

Notes

Variation: Swap kidney beans for black beans or add a minced chipotle in adobo for extra smokiness. For a quicker pot, use red lentils and simmer 15 to 20 minutes; the texture will be softer. Serve with cornbread, over baked potatoes, or spooned onto rice. Leftovers keep 4 days refrigerated and freeze well up to 3 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Lentil Chili for Every Occasion flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.