Chili con carne

Lentil Chili with Ground Meat Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Introduction:
Lentil chili with ground meat is a comforting, easy-to-make dish packed with flavors. This recipe combines protein-rich lentils with ground meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a hearty and wholesome meal. The origins of this type of dish are lost in history, being appreciated in numerous cultures for its ability to provide a substantial and nutritious meal.

Nutritional Benefits:
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins (especially B), minerals like iron and magnesium, and are low in fat. Adding beef provides an extra protein boost, while the vegetables contribute vitamins and antioxidants, turning this dish into a true nutritional feast.

Ingredients:
- 250 g red lentils
- 800 g canned tomatoes (approximately one can)
- 4 medium onions
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 bell peppers (1 red and 1 yellow)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 500 g ground beef
- 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- A bunch of green onions (optional)
- 150 g Cedar cheese (or sheep cheese, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the Ingredients:
1. Lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils in 2-3 waters, ensuring you wash them well to remove impurities. This will also help reduce cooking time.
2. Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes, onions, garlic, and bell peppers. These will add sweetness and flavor to your dish.
3. Meat: If you have frozen ground beef, make sure to thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Instructions:
1. Browning the meat: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of oil and, over medium heat, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent. This will create an essential flavor base for the chili.

3. Adding the lentils: Incorporate the lentils into the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to combine with the vegetables.

4. Creating the chili mixture: Add the ground meat back into the skillet. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and oregano, mixing well to combine all flavors. Then, add the chopped tomatoes, bay leaves, and about 1.2 liters of water. Let everything simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, with the lid slightly ajar, stirring occasionally. This will help develop flavors and ensure even cooking of the lentils.

5. Adjusting the seasoning: At the end of the cooking time, taste and adjust the seasonings. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preferences.

6. Serving: Grate the cheese and chop the green onions into 2-3 cm pieces. Serve the chili hot, topped with cheese and, if desired, with green onions on top. This dish pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or a crunchy green salad.

Serving Suggestions:
This lentil chili is delicious served with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, which will add a creamy touch. You can also add a few slices of avocado to enrich the flavor. If you want to give it a spicy kick, add a few drops of hot sauce.

Possible Variations:
- Vegetarian: You can omit the meat and add a larger amount of lentils or vegetables.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices such as coriander, sweet paprika, or even a bit of ginger for a unique flavor.
- Vegetables: Add grated carrots or zucchini to enrich the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use green or brown lentils? Yes, but the cooking time will vary, so make sure to adjust the water and boiling time.
2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Certainly! Lentil chili can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and improves each time you reheat it.
3. Is it possible to freeze this dish? Yes, it can be frozen for later consumption. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Whether you prepare it for a quick dinner during the week or for a special occasion, this lentil chili with ground meat will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite full of flavor and warmth, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends!