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Vegetarian Mexican Lentils Recipe

4.8 from 51 reviews

A hearty and flavorful Vegetarian Mexican Lentils recipe featuring brown lentils, sweet potatoes, black beans, and classic Mexican spices simmered together to create a nutritious and comforting one-pot meal. Topped with cheddar cheese for added richness, this dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup diced sweet potatoes (1/2 inch pieces)
  • 1 cup frozen corn

Spices & Condiments

  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Legumes & Others

  • 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added black beans
  • 1 can (15 ounce) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups broth of choice (vegetable or chicken)
  • Cheddar cheese (amount to your liking)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil and sauté onion: In a large pot over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, sweet potatoes, and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sweet potatoes begin to soften and the mixture is aromatic.
  3. Add lentils, beans, tomatoes, and corn: Pour in the rinsed brown lentils, no-salt-added black beans, diced tomatoes, and frozen corn. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Add broth and simmer: Pour in 2 cups of your preferred broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
  5. Season and serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper according to preference. Serve the lentils hot, topped generously with shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or chicken broth for added flavor.
  • Adjust the chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit the cheddar cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Brown lentils generally do not require soaking but rinsing them well helps remove impurities.
  • This dish freezes well; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Keywords: vegetarian lentils, Mexican lentils, healthy dinner, sweet potato lentils, lentil stew, black beans, one pot meals, vegetarian Mexican recipe