Hearty Vegan Lentil Chili

Instructions

1. 1

   Sauté the vegetables

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6-8 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. 2

   Toast the spices and tomato paste

   • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
   • Add the tomato paste and stir it into the vegetables. Cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.
3. 3

   Simmer the chili

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the vegetable broth. Add the rinsed brown lentils.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer.
   • Cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.