Slow Cooker Lentil Taco Chili Recipe

This Slow Cooker Lentil and Black Bean Chili is a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious, plant-based meal. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a set-it-and-forget-it recipe or a family searching for a dinner that everyone will love, this chili delivers warmth and satisfaction. With a rich blend of spices, veggies, and legumes, this chili is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Lentil and Black Bean Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils: These legumes add heartiness and texture to the chili.
• 1 medium onion (white or yellow): Onions bring depth of flavor and sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper: Offers a mild sweetness and a vibrant color contrast.
• 1 red bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the chili’s visual appeal.
• 1 jalapeño pepper: For a bit of heat; you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
• 3-4 cloves garlic: Garlic infuses the chili with a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 2 cans black beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed: Black beans add protein and a creamy texture.
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes: Provides a rich tomato base, full of flavor.
• 3 cups vegetable broth: The liquid foundation for the chili, enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
• 2 cups frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch.
• 1 cup salsa (choose your favorite!): Incorporates an additional layer of flavor and spice.
• 2 TBSP chili powder: The primary spice that defines the chili’s characteristic taste.
• 1.5 TBSP ground cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal note.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky, rich flavor of the chili.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the flavors and adds a final touch of seasoning.
• 2 TBSP fresh chopped cilantro: Adds freshness; reserve some for garnish.

Easy Homemade Pico de Gallo:

• 2 cups finely diced roma tomatoes (plum tomatoes): The base for fresh pico de gallo.
• 1 cup finely diced white onion: Adds sharpness and crunch.
• 1 jalapeño (seeds/stem removed): For a bit of heat.
• ¼-⅓ cup fresh chopped cilantro: Adds freshness and a burst of color.
• ½ lime, juiced: Adds acidity and brightness.
• ½-¾ tsp salt or season to taste: Brings all the flavors together.

More Tasty Topping Options:

• Crushed tortilla chips
• Grated cheese (skip for vegan)
• Sour cream (vegan or regular)
• Sliced avocado
• Sliced or diced jalapeño peppers

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen equipment:

• 6-Quart Slow Cooker: The primary tool for this recipe, allowing for slow, even cooking.
• Fine Mesh Colander or Sieve: For rinsing the lentils.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables finely and efficiently.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for preparing your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients in the slow cooker.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Lentils

Start by picking over the lentils, removing any debris like broken pieces or small rocks. Rinse the lentils thoroughly in a fine mesh colander under cold water. This step ensures your lentils are clean and ready to absorb all the wonderful flavors of the chili.

2. Chopping the Vegetables

Next, prepare the vegetables. Peel and dice the onion, making sure the pieces are small enough to blend well into the chili. Remove the stems and seeds from the bell peppers and jalapeño, then dice them into small, even pieces. Finally, peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them. Prepping these ingredients ahead of time will streamline the cooking process.

3. Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Now comes the fun part: combining all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, garlic, black beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, salsa, spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika), and lentils to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will slowly cook down, melding together into a rich and flavorful chili.

4. Adjusting the Spice Level

If you like your chili on the spicier side, feel free to add more jalapeño, use a spicier salsa, or incorporate some ground cayenne pepper. You have complete control over the heat level, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.

5. Cooking Times: High vs Low Heat

Set your slow cooker to HIGH for 5 hours or LOW for 9-10 hours, depending on your schedule. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop, and the lentils to become tender and delicious. By the end of the cooking time, your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of homemade chili.

Making the Perfect Pico de Gallo

While your chili is cooking, take the time to prepare a batch of fresh pico de gallo. Finely dice the roma tomatoes and white onion, then chop the jalapeño, ensuring you remove the seeds and stem for a milder flavor. Combine these with freshly chopped cilantro, the juice of half a lime, and salt. Mix everything together, and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed. This fresh, tangy pico de gallo is the perfect topping for your chili, adding brightness and texture to every bite.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Lentil and Black Bean Chili is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside a slice of cornbread for a comforting, satisfying meal. Alternatively, enjoy it as-is with a generous helping of your favorite toppings. The robust flavors of the chili pair well with a variety of side dishes, making it a great centerpiece for any meal.

Topping Ideas

Enhance your chili with a range of toppings to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Add crunch and a salty bite.
• Grated Cheese: Use a vegan alternative for a dairy-free option.
• Sour Cream: Choose regular or vegan versions for a creamy contrast.
• Sliced Avocado: Adds creaminess and a cooling effect.
• Sliced or Diced Jalapeño Peppers: For an extra kick of heat.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Vegan and Vegetarian Alternatives

This chili is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring all your toppings, like cheese and sour cream, are plant-based. You can also experiment with other legumes, such as kidney beans or chickpeas, to vary the texture and flavor.

Customizing the Chili to Your Taste

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can add vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition or swap the lentils for a different type of bean. The recipe is flexible, so adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Rinsing the Lentils: This can lead to a gritty texture. Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking.
2. Overcooking the Chili: While slow cookers are forgiving, leaving the chili on high heat for too long can cause the lentils to become mushy.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your chili and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or spice can make a big difference.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the chili has thickened too much. This chili also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Simply portion the chili into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of lentils? Yes, you can use different types of lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Green and brown lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for this recipe.

Can I make this chili spicier? Absolutely! Add more jalapeño, use a spicier salsa, or include ground cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.

What can I serve with this chili? Serve this chili with rice, cornbread, or enjoy it on its own with your favorite toppings.

How long does this chili take to cook? Cook on HIGH for 5 hours or LOW for 9-10 hours until the lentils are tender.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Lentil and Black Bean Chili is a hearty, nutritious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this chili will satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make meals!

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