Lentil Bean Chili

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil (olive or avocado)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 4 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the pot.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate Lentils and Spices:
   • Add both the brown (or green) and red lentils to the pot.
   • Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
   • Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Add Tomatoes and Liquid:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes (with their juices).
   • Pour in the water or vegetable broth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Add Beans and Corn:
   • Once the lentils are cooked, add the black beans, kidney beans, and corn kernels to the pot.
   • Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10 minutes to heat through.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Stir in the lime juice.
   • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
   • Serve hot.

Notes:

• This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables and beans based on your preferences or what you have on hand.