If you're searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that warms both the soul and the stomach, look no further than this Smoky Chipotle Lentil and Bean Chili! Bursting with rich, smoky flavors and packed with protein, this chili is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In just an hour, you can whip up a pot of this Mexican-inspired comfort food that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in cumin and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatics for about 1 minute.
- Add the rinsed lentils, drained black beans, and kidney beans to the pot. Stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Add the chipotle in adobo sauce, stirring to distribute the smoky, spicy flavor throughout the chili.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the lentils for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, add a bit more broth and continue cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust spices if desired.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Optional: top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your chili.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce. You can always add more spice later!
- Simmer for Perfection: Allow the chili to simmer gently. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also ensures the lentils are cooked to the perfect texture.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro garnish! It adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the rich, smoky flavors of the chili.
- Leftovers Delight: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
