Ingredients
Chili Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Beans and Lentils
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons diced chipotles in adobo
- 3 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup uncooked split red lentils
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2-3 cups vegetable broth
Finishing Touches & Garnishes
- Juice of 1 lime
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Fritos, for garnish
- Vegan sour cream, for garnish
- Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Sliced jalapeno, optional garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced red onion along with a large pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and sugar to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to toast the spices and release their aromas without burning.
- Combine Beans and Lentils: Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced chipotles in adobo, drained black beans, and uncooked split red lentils. Season with another large pinch of salt and pepper to layer the flavors.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in the tomato sauce and add 2 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Simmer: Cover the pot, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Lentils and Adjust Liquid: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the lentils are tender. If the chili is too thick, gradually add the remaining 1 cup of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Finish with Lime and Seasoning: Stir in the juice of one lime for brightness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with crunchy Fritos, vegan sour cream, fresh chopped cilantro, and slices of jalapeno if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chipotles in adobo or adding sliced jalapenos as garnish.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of vegetable broth slightly.
- For added protein, consider topping with avocado slices or nutritional yeast.
- This chili stores well and tastes even better the next day; refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Make sure to rinse the canned black beans to reduce sodium content and any canned taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegan