Description
Hearty slow cooker lentil taco chili blends Mexican and Southwestern flavors into a comforting one-pot meal. Rich protein-packed ingredients merge seamlessly, creating a satisfying dinner perfect for cold evenings you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) canned tomatoes
- 1 cup corn
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Garnish and Finishing:
- 2 tablespoons cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
- Carefully rinse lentils under cold water to remove any debris, then drain completely in a colander.
- Transfer rinsed lentils into the slow cooker, creating a flavorful base layer.
- Layer diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers over the lentils for enhanced aromatic depth.
- Pour canned tomatoes, corn kernels, and black beans into the slow cooker, distributing evenly.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning across the ingredients, ensuring comprehensive flavor coverage.
- Gently pour vegetable broth over the mixture, moistening all components.
- Cover slow cooker and set to low temperature for 6-8 hours or high temperature for 3-4 hours, allowing ingredients to meld and lentils to become tender.
- During the final 15 minutes of cooking, squeeze fresh lime juice into the chili for brightness.
- Chop fresh cilantro and stir into the chili just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor.
- Plate the chili and garnish with optional toppings like sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or dollop of sour cream for customized presentation.
Notes
- Thoroughly rinse lentils to remove any debris and reduce potential digestive discomfort.
- For extra protein boost, consider adding quinoa or diced tofu alongside lentils.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting taco seasoning or adding fresh jalapeños for spice lovers.
- Ensure vegetarian-friendly version by checking taco seasoning ingredients for hidden animal products.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg