This hearty meatless chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. By combining lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, you get a thick, satisfying texture that rivals any traditional meat-based version. The base of crushed tomatoes and aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes creates a deep, savory flavor profile with just the right amount of warmth. Fresh celery and garlic add brightness and depth, while the soup mix provides a convenient savory backbone. It’s incredibly easy to throw together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Serve it hot with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.
Hearty Meatless Chili
Description
This hearty meatless chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. By combining lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, you get a thick, satisfying texture that rivals any traditional meat-based version. The base of crushed tomatoes and aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes creates a deep, savory flavor profile with just the right amount of warmth. Fresh celery and garlic add brightness and depth, while the soup mix provides a convenient savory backbone. It&# 226;ÂÂs incredibly easy to throw together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Serve it hot with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare the soup mix according to package directions, using water as the liquid, and set aside.
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Rinse and drain the chickpeas and kidney beans thoroughly.
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Chop the whole peeled tomatoes (undrained) into bite-sized pieces.
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Coarsely chop the celery stalk and mince the garlic clove.
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In a large saucepan or stockpot, combine the prepared soup mix, water, chickpeas, kidney beans, chopped tomatoes, lentils, celery, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and crushed red pepper.
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Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are beginning to soften.
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Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and the lentils are tender.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
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Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese or served over brown or white rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 208.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.9g8%
- Saturated Fat 0.9g5%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 343.6mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 34.5g12%
- Dietary Fiber 7.3g30%
- Sugars 6.8g
- Protein 8.5g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.