Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup dried brown or green lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in the chili powder and ground cumin, cooking for about 30 seconds until the spices are aromatic. Pour in the undrained can of diced tomatoes and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Step 3: Add the rinsed lentils, the rinsed and drained black beans, and the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Step 4: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially (allowing steam to escape), and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils are completely tender and the chili has thickened significantly.
- Step 5: Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as necessary, adding salt and black pepper to your preference. If the chili is too thick, add a small splash of water or broth. Serve hot.
Notes
- This chili is excellent for meal prep; store cooled leftovers tightly sealed in the fridge for up to four days, knowing the spices will meld beautifully overnight.
- Since lentils absorb liquid as they chill, always stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating on the stovetop to restore the perfect consistency.
- To maximize flavor depth, make sure you bloom the chili powder and cumin in the oil for the full 30 seconds after the garlic, which wakes up the spices before you add the liquid.
- Complete your bowl with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a dollop of creamy mashed avocado or vegan sour cream for cooling contrast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American