Lentil Black Bean Chili (Meatless)

Lentil Black Bean Chili is a delicious chili that will satisfy everyone. Hearty lentils and black beans are paired with enough spices, veggies, and tomatoes to make this thick, best-tasting chili. It’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.

What are Lentils?

Lentils are dry legumes that look like little tiny pods and are sold in packages at your local supermarkets. They are high in nutrients, high in fiber, and an excellent source of protein.

What Kind of Lentils are Best?

The best kinds of lentils for soups, and chili, are brown or green lentils. Simply because they hold their shape better than the red lentils and they have a mild flavor. Also, brown lentils are great for making a Lentil Salad with Sweet Peppers.

Quick Directions To Make This Chili:

Our full printable recipe card is located at the bottom. But, let’s walk through our easy steps for you to understand what’s involved before you start.

1. In a Dutch oven or large sauce pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Toss in garlic, onion, and carrots, and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add the chili powder blend. salt and ground ginger, and stir for a few seconds.

3. Pour in the broth, and add lentils, tomato paste, and peeled tomatoes with juices. Bring to a boil, and turn down the heat to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 30 – 35 minutes.

4. Add the black beans and water and cover. Continue to simmer for an additional 20 – 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the liquid. If the liquid is too low, add more water to your desired consistency. Taste, and add salt and pepper to your preference.

5. Serve in bowls with your favorite toppings of your choice. And, your favorite garnishes and enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions:

There are so many variations and substitutions for you to try with this recipe. Mix things up and enjoy this recipe to your preference.

• Lentils: If you want to replace lentils? Then try it with quinoa. Or you can load it up with more vegetables, like our Easy Vegetarian Chili.

• Beans: Go ahead to switch up the beans. Try it with red kidney beans, butter beans, or black-eye beans for a variety. Also, I used 3 cans of black beans, but you can use only 2 cans.

• Broth: If you prefer, you can use only water and drop a couple of vegetable bouillon cubes for more flavor.

• Seasonings: You can use the spices you have on hand. And, even toss some jalapenos for extra heat. I used only 2 tablespoons of the Chili Powder Blend, but you can add more to your taste.

• Vegetables: Go ahead and add other vegetables to this chili to your liking. Try adding celery, corn, or sweet or green peppers.

• Tomatoes: I used 1/2 of a 28-ounce can of San Marzano peeled tomatoes. You can use any can of tomatoes you have on hand, from 14 ounces or more.

• Meat: Want meat? Then try this recipe with ground chicken, beef, or turkey if you prefer. No one will mind. It’s all about what you want in a chili.

What to serve with lentil black bean chili?

• Make a pot of steamed rice and serve chili on top. Serve it with some baked or roasted potatoes. Both options as a side with this vegetarian chili are perfect for a hearty, cozy dinner.
• Looking for more ideas? Try this lentil black bean chili recipe as the filling for: Potato Skin Bites as Nachos. Perfect idea for your next Sunday football game night.
• Serve a basket filled with our Easy Homemade Cornbread Recipe. And, if you make this chili in the fall? Try serving it with our Pumpkin Cornbread Recipe – it’s a delicious combo!

FAQ’s

1. How long does lentil black bean chili keep? Lentil Black Bean Chili tends to keep fresh in the refrigerator for days… and at least 5 days. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
2. Can we prep ahead? Yes, you can chop vegetables a few days ahead. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the chili.
3. Can we freeze this chili? Yes, you can. Be sure to allow the chili to cool completely before storing it in an air-tight container. Then freeze it. It will freeze for up to one month.
4. What are the best lentils for this recipe? We prefer brown lentils for this recipe. They will give you the best texture for this chili.
5. Can we add more spices? Yes, if you love more spice in your chili, add the ones to your liking.

More Delicious Recipes

• Lentil Spinach Soup
• Easy Vegetarian Chili
• Sweet Potato Chili
• Easy Butter Beans Soup

Your comments help us! Did you make this chili? Please come back and tell us; we’d love to hear from you! And be sure to subscribe to get all new recipes FREE!

Have a Delicious Day! 🙂

Thanks for stopping by…

xo anna and liz