Spicy Lentil Chili with California Prunes
California Prunes adds a sweet layer of contrast in this spicy lentil chili. Created by Jackie Newgent, RDN, CDN.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado or sunflower oil
- 1 small or ½ medium red onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, minced
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1¼ cups dry brown lentils (8.5 ounces)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced, no-salt-added fire-roasted tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (32 fluid ounces)
- 12 California prunes, finely diced (3.5 ounces)
- ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
Directions
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño and cook while stirring until the onion is lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder, and cinnamon and cook while stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the lentils, tomatoes (with liquid), and broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Partially cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until lentils are just tender, about 25 minutes.
Remove lid, stir in the prunes, and cook while stirring occasionally until desired consistency, about 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust seasoning.
Ladle into small bowls, sprinkle with the cilantro, and serve.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories 240