Skyline Lentil Chili

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 medium yellow onions (1 pound)
• 4 large carrots (1 pound)
• 4 large celery stalks (1 pound)
• 1 green bell pepper (1/2 pound)
• 1 red bell pepper (1/2 pound)
• 1 poblano pepper (1/4 pound), roasted (or use 1 anaheim pepper)
• 6 cloves garlic (1 ounce)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 (14-ounce) cans vegetarian chili beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups dry lentils, rinsed and sorted
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

75 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Finely chop the onions, carrots, celery, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and garlic.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onions for 5 minutes until softened. Add the carrots, celery, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, poblano pepper, and garlic and cook for 5 minutes more, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 30 seconds, or until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chili beans, lentils, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Once the chili has thickened, stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve warm with your desired toppings (e.g., shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions).

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 300 per serving
• Fat: 5 grams
• Saturated fat: 1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 500 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams
• Fiber: 20 grams
• Protein: 15 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Vegetarian and vegan-friendly
• Packed with vegetables and lentils for a nutrient-rich meal
• Warm and comforting, perfect for cold nights
• Customizable with various toppings

User Comments:

• "This chili is so flavorful and hearty, even though it's vegetarian!" - Sarah
• "I love the combination of different vegetables and spices. It's a comforting and satisfying meal." - John
• "Perfect for a casual get-together or a more formal dinner party. It's always a crowd-pleaser!" - Mary

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have a poblano pepper, you can substitute it with an anaheim pepper for a milder flavor.
• For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper to taste.
• If the chili becomes too thick, add more vegetable broth as needed.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.