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Hearty Vegan Black Bean & Lentil Chili

Hearty Vegan Black Bean & Lentil Chili
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 1 carrot diced
  • 1 zucchini diced
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked lentils green or brown
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 Measuring cups
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add the diced zucchini and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the black beans, cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth into the pot.
  6. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  7. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary before serving.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Storage & Reheating:
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until hot.
Variations:
- Add corn for a sweet crunch.
- Include diced sweet potatoes for extra texture.
- Spice it up with jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Substitute lentils with quinoa for a different protein source.
- Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for added greens.