Spicy Lentil Chili with a Sweet Twist

A hearty and flavorful chili featuring a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, made with lentils, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

1	tablespoon olive oil
1	large yellow sweet onion, chopped
1	small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2	garlic cloves, minced
2	tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
1 ½	cups dried brown lentils, picked over and rinsed
1	(28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
⅓	cup dark unsulphured molasses
½	teaspoon ground allspice
	cayenne pepper, to taste
	salt
	pepper
2	cups water
1	cup cup apple juice

Instructions

• 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until softened.
  2. Stir in chili powder and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the cooked mixture to a 4-quart slow cooker. Add in dried lentils, crushed tomatoes, dark unsulphured molasses, and ground allspice. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour in water and apple juice. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours.
  5. If the chili thickens too much, stir in more water as needed.

Jul 20, 2024