High Protein Hearty Lentil Chili

Loaded with plant-based protein and rich, robust flavors, this High Protein Hearty Lentil Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days or weeknight meals. Packed with nutritious lentils, black beans, and kidney beans, it delivers a satisfying, protein-rich punch in every spoonful. A medley of vibrant vegetables—onion, bell pepper, carrots, and celery—simmers together with aromatic spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, creating a deeply flavorful base. Finished with a zesty garnish of fresh cilantro and lime, this one-pot wonder is as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, offering wholesome goodness in just under an hour. Whether vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for hearty chili recipes, this dish is a must-try for your recipe rotation!

Nutriscore Rating: 84/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans canned diced tomatoes (14-ounce can)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 can cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 1 lime wedges (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute to release the spice aromas.

Step 5

Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 7

Cover the pot and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Step 8

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the black beans and kidney beans.

Step 9

Season with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.

Step 10

Simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 11

Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2468.2 grams (2468.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1621

Total Fat 42.20g	54%
Saturated Fat 7.10g	36%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.50g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5312mg	231%
Total Carbohydrate 248.30g	90%
Dietary Fiber 78.90g	282%
Total Sugars 48.60g
Protein 73.70g	147%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 613mg	47%
Iron 30mg	169%
Potassium 6095mg	130%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.8%

Protein: 17.7%

Carbs: 59.6%