Ingredients
– 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips
Instructions
Creating Slow Cooker Lentil Taco Chili is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
2. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and vegetable broth.
3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined.
4. Set Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Check for Doneness: When cooking time is up, check the lentils. They should be tender and the chili should have thickened.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired.
7. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.
These steps ensure that you’ll create an incredible chili that is both satisfying and delicious!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 12g