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Slow Cooker Lentil Chili

Slow Cooker Lentil Chili

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Lentil Chili is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings. Give it a try tonight!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups brown lentils or green
  • 15 ounces kidney beans or black beans, canned, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups carrots, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, medium, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, medium, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 sweet potato, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 30 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
  • 4 ounces diced green chilies, canned
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 lime, zest and juice Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or sliced avocado (optional toppings)
  • homemade vegan sour cream or store-bought, optional

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Add all the ingredients (except the garnish ingredients) into a large slow cooker and stir to combine.
  2. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours (or 4 to 5 hours on high), until the lentils are tender. If the chili isn’t thick enough for your liking, stir in additional tomato paste during the last hour.
  3. Garnish each bowl with the lime zest and juice, cilantro, green onions, sliced avocado, and vegan sour cream, if desired.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze this chili for up to three months. Just make sure it's cooled completely and stored in a freezer-safe container.
  • Tip 3: This chili pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or cornbread. For a refreshing twist, serve with avocado slices or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
  • Tip 4: Adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or even diced jalapeños. If you want a milder version, simply omit the hotter spices.
  • Tip 5: Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms can complement the flavors beautifully!