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High Protein Crockpot Lentil Taco Chili Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 101 reviews

This High Protein Crockpot Lentil Taco Chili is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious vegetarian chili packed with green lentils, black beans, colorful bell peppers, and a smoky blend of spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s an easy and comforting dish that delivers authentic taco flavors and protein-rich ingredients ideal for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili:

  • 1 jalapeño pepper (minced, seeds removed for less heat)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 medium onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 2 cans black beans (15 oz each, drained and rinsed)
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 1 cup dry green lentils (dried, not cooked)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped, added at end)
  • 1.5 tbsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 green bell pepper (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup salsa (preferred heat level)

For the Pico de Gallo:

  • 0.5 lime (juice only)
  • 1 jalapeño pepper (minced, seeds removed for milder flavor)
  • 1 cup diced white onion (finely diced)
  • 0.75 tsp salt
  • 2 cups diced roma tomatoes (cut into 1/4-inch dice)
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)

For Toppings (Optional):

  • Sliced jalapeño peppers (for extra heat)
  • Sour cream (for creaminess)
  • Sliced avocado
  • Grated cheese (recommended)
  • Crushed tortilla chips (adds crunch)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the dry green lentils under cold water to remove any debris and help them cook evenly. Dice both the medium onion and white onion into 1/2-inch pieces separately. Dice the red and green bell peppers into 1/2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Mince the jalapeño pepper and remove seeds for less heat. Drain and rinse the black beans. Having all ingredients prepped ensures a smooth cooking process.
  2. Combine Aromatics and Liquids: Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and minced jalapeño into your 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Then add ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the spices, enhancing flavor without bitterness.
  3. Add Main Ingredients: Incorporate the rinsed lentils, diced red and green bell peppers, black beans, salsa, and frozen corn into the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly so the lentils are fully submerged in the liquid and all ingredients are combined evenly.
  4. Slow Cook the Chili: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 5 hours or on LOW for 9-10 hours. This slow simmer allows the lentils to become tender and flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Season and Finish: After cooking, taste the chili and add salt and black pepper to your liking. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime and stir to brighten the flavors. Fold in fresh chopped cilantro just before serving to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
  6. Prepare and Serve with Toppings: Ladle the chili into bowls and offer optional toppings such as sliced avocado, sour cream, grated cheese, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips so guests can customize their bowls. Fresh diced roma tomatoes and extra cilantro make excellent finishing touches.

Notes

  • Removing seeds from jalapeños reduces heat for a milder chili; keep seeds if more spice is desired.
  • Using San Marzano crushed tomatoes enhances the chili’s flavor with a sweeter, richer tomato taste.
  • Slow cooking allows lentils to absorb flavors and become tender without needing pre-soaking.
  • Optional toppings can be customized to your preference for texture and spice level.
  • For a vegan version, omit sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Ensure the slow cooker is large enough (at least 6-quart) to accommodate ingredients comfortably.

Keywords: high protein, lentil chili, crockpot chili, vegetarian chili, slow cooker recipe, healthy chili, taco chili, black beans, comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/high-protein-crockpot-lentil-taco-chili-recipe/