Name: Lentil Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil); 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup); 2 large carrots, diced (about 1 cup); 1 large bell pepper (any color), diced (about 1 cup); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 ¼ cups dried lentils, sorted and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 bay leaf

This Lentil Chili is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils and beans, it’s a satisfying and comforting chili that’s easy to make and perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Hearty: This chili is packed with a rich blend of spices, vegetables, and hearty lentils, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this chili is a breeze to prepare.
Healthy and Versatile: This chili is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans. You can also easily customize it with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Lentil Chili:

Olive oil: Or any cooking oil, for sautéing the vegetables.
Onion, carrots, and bell pepper: Diced, for flavor, texture, and color.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Chili powder and cumin: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Vegetable broth: Forms the base of the flavorful chili.
Dried lentils: Sorted and rinsed, adds protein and a hearty texture.
Black beans: Drained and rinsed, adds another layer of protein and texture.
Crushed tomatoes: Undrained, adds sweetness and acidity.
Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened, adds depth and richness to the chili.
Sea salt and black pepper: To taste.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle aromatic flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Lentil Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until tender and fragrant, stirring as needed.

Step 2: Add Spices and Other Ingredients

Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Continue sautéing for a few more minutes, stirring as needed. Then, add the vegetable broth, lentils, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, cocoa powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer and Serve

Increase the heat and bring the chili to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, loosely cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the chili has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve warm with your favorite chili toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use an immersion blender (optional): If you prefer a smoother chili, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the chili after it’s cooked.
Adjust the consistency: If the chili is too thick, add more broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Customize the toppings: Feel free to add your favorite chili toppings, such as chopped onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.

How to Serve Lentil Chili

Cozy Weeknight Meal: This Lentil Chili is perfect for a warm and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Game Day Snack: Serve it as a hearty and satisfying snack for game day gatherings.
Potluck Favorite: This chili is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to transport and serve at potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months (or longer if vacuum sealed).

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lentil?
Yes, you can use other types of lentils, such as green lentils or brown lentils, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this chili in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can! Follow the pressure cooker instructions in the recipe notes.

Can I make this chili spicier?
Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes or use a hotter variety of chili powder.

What are some good toppings for lentil chili?
Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Lentil Chili that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Stacy Corbo

Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Lentil Chili Recipe