Chili With Lentils
Hearty lentil chili with rich tomato flavor and bold spices, perfect for comforting meals, suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a nutritious, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the dry lentils and pick out any stems or stones.
- Add salt and dry lentils to boiling water.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Do not drain.
- Add tomatoes or tomato sauce, chili powder, chopped onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve over rice, spaghetti, or corn chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding bell peppers or corn. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the lentils with black beans for a different flavor profile. If using canned tomatoes, choose fire-roasted for extra depth. Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili over rice, spaghetti, or corn chips for a delicious meal. It pairs beautifully with Eulane Mccurry'S Layered Salad for a refreshing contrast. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added creaminess. A side of crusty bread or cornbread also complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. This chili also freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili With Lentils contains roughly 415 calories, with 9g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1185mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of tomatoes should I use?
You can use either canned tomatoes or tomato sauce, depending on your preference. Diced tomatoes will give a chunkier texture, while tomato sauce will create a smoother chili. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes add a great smokiness and depth to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).