This vegetarian lentil chili is hearty, aromatic, and delicious. A big bowl topped with lots of green onions and a dollop of sour cream is comfort food made easy.
I’m all about easy weekday recipes. Why? Because I just don’t have the time and energy to create/cook complex dishes, especially after a full day of work. And by easy I mean meals that require minimal ingredients and are ready in under 30-45 minutes ish.
When I first told Vishnu that lentil chili was on this week’s menu, his reaction was less than enthusiastic. He’s not a fan of non-Indian lentil dishes, but because this recipe fits my weekday meal criteria, I ignored him and decided to make it anyways.
I’m so glad I did because not only did I find this chili to be absolutely delicious but so did Vishnu! He gobbled it up (two nights in a row!) without a single complaint about the star ingredient.
Before I share the recipe, I just want to say that this chili is SO easy to make it’s stupid. I will say that I had to restrain myself from adding more veggies and spices. If you find yourself questioning this recipe, don’t. It’s perfection stems from it’s simplicity!
And PLEASE don’t omit the sour cream and green onions! They add so much to the flavor profile. Trust me!
Lentil Chili
Serves 4
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup dried green lentils, sorted and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes, pureed
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped green onions
sour cream to taste
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and saute for 1-2 more minutes. Add chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir together until combined. Add 4 cups of vegetable broth, lentils, and tomato puree. Increase heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium until lentils are tender. Stir in 1/4 cup of green onions. Season chili with salt and pepper. Before serving, top with more green onions and sour cream. Enjoy!
Are you a fan of chili? What are your favorite toppings?