It's January! A new year (a new decade!!), a fresh start, and a chance to be a new you! At least for those who get into New Year's resolutions. A lot of people decide to make lifestyle changes or goals at the start of the year and statistically speaking, a lot of those resolutions are heath related.
I figured I'd help those with health goals out by staying away from my not-so-healthy recipes (looking at you S'mores Bars ) and giving you a savory and satisfying dish that's perfect to enjoy on those chilly winter days. Get it? Chilly? Chili? No? Maybe I should have mentioned it's a chili recipe. A vegetarian chili recipe!
I'm not a big fan of meat substitutes so we'll be staying away from that all-together today. Just yummy veggies, lentils, and a great mix of spices. The best part of this dish? It's a crock pot recipe! Just dump everything in, leave it for a few hours, and you'll have a delicious smelling house and a tasty meal to enjoy!
Start out by draining your cans of beans and tomatoes (drain, but don't wash). Then dump each into your crock pot followed by your can of tomato paste.
Next, mix your spices together in a small bowl and dump them in as well. I find mixing them in a separate bowl first helps make sure they're evenly distributed throughout the dish. If you're wanting a more mild chili, half measurements for the spices.
Lastly, add your chopped celery, onions, and minced garlic.
Stir it all up and you're set! If you think the chili is too thick, you can add some water, but it will thin out a little as it cooks. I added one cup of water to my chili half way through my cook time.
Pop on the lid and cook on high for a minimum of three hours. The longer a chili cooks, the better the flavors will be! When you're ready to enjoy, you can sprinkle your bowl with a little cheese and/or chives and a dollop of sour cream or whatever you like to top your chili with.
Now you have a delicious, warm, and healthy meal to enjoy on those CHILLY winter days! Or any day, It's some pretty good stuff!