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Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne Recipe

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This easy slow cooker chili con carne recipe is a vegetarian twist on the classic, featuring lentils, black beans, bell peppers, and a blend of flavorful spices. It's a perfect set-and-forget meal that's rich in plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling dish for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
  • 1 medium onion (white or yellow)
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 jalapeño pepper (plus extra for topping, if desired)
  • 3-4 cloves garlic
  • 2 cans black beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 TBSP chili powder
  • 1.5 TBSP ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 TBSP fresh chopped cilantro (plus extra for topping, to taste)
  • For Pico de Gallo:
    • 2 cups finely diced roma tomatoes
    • 1 cup finely diced white onion
    • 1 jalapeño (seeds/stem removed)
    • ¼- cup fresh chopped cilantro
    • ½ lime, juiced
    • ½-¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • Topping Options:
    • Crushed tortilla chips
    • Grated cheese (skip for vegan)
    • Sour cream (vegan or regular)
    • Sliced avocado
    • Sliced or diced jalapeño peppers

Instructions

  • Rinse the lentils and set them aside.
  • Dice the onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, and garlic.
  • In a slow cooker, combine the lentils, onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, garlic, black beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, frozen corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika.
  • Stir well, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro.
  • Prepare the Pico de Gallo by mixing diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
  • Serve the chili hot, topped with Pico de Gallo, and additional toppings as desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño.
  • This chili is easily customizable with your favorite beans or veggies.
  • For added richness, consider adding a spoonful of sour cream or some grated cheese before serving.

Nutrition