Do you ever find yourself at a family cookout or tailgate, hoping for a vegan option that’s more than just a side salad? We’ve been there, so we created this Loyal Lentil Chili—a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing with everyone, vegan or not.
Chili is often made with meat for that satisfying thickness, but who says plant-based versions can’t be just as good? With the right blend of veggies, spices, and lentils, you can whip up a nutritious meal that’s full of flavor.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making this comforting Loyal Lentil Chili, using everyday ingredients and a blend of spices that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
It’s so good that it might even replace Uncle Steve’s famous meat chili at the next family gathering!
Why This Loyal Lentil Chili Is So Good
Chili is a crowd-pleaser, but not everyone can or wants to enjoy a meat-heavy dish. Our Loyal Lentil Chili is not only vegan-friendly but also packed with protein and fiber, making it satisfying and nutritious.
One of the great things about this recipe is that it allows you to control the fat content, as it skips the meat and focuses on wholesome ingredients.
Lentils are a key part of this dish, offering a plant-based source of protein and fiber that supports muscle function and digestion.
You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. And if not, feel free to get creative with substitutions. This recipe is all about flexibility and making vegan cooking accessible for busy families.
Ingredients for Loyal Lentil Chili
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious, family-friendly chili:
- Lentils: 1 cup of dried lentils (any variety; red, beluga, or puy work great). They add thickness and heartiness to the chili.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or coconut oil if preferred) to sauté the veggies.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon each of cumin, turmeric, ground coriander, and paprika; ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. If you want more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Vegetables:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into 3 cm cubes (about 2 cups). You can swap this for 2 medium zucchinis, an eggplant, or potatoes if preferred.
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced.
- 1 large red pepper, sliced.
- Red Chilis: 2 fresh red chilis, chopped. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Canned Chopped Tomatoes: 1 can (400g) to add sweetness and bulk.
- Coconut Milk: 1 cup for creaminess.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons for a hint of saltiness.
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option).
- Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime to balance flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
How to Make Loyal Lentil Chili
With ingredients prepped and ready, let’s start cooking! We recommend making this chili a day ahead to let the flavors deepen and meld together.
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Get everything ready before you start cooking. Peel and chop the butternut squash into chunks, thinly slice the shallots, slice the red pepper, mince the garlic, and chop the chilis. This way, everything is within reach, and you can enjoy the cooking process without any rush.
Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6. Spread the cubed butternut squash on a large roasting pan, drizzle with one tablespoon of oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30–40 minutes until golden and tender.
This step adds a deep, roasted flavor to the squash, which complements the spices in the chili.
Step 3: Boil the Lentils
While the squash is roasting, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of dried lentils and cook for 25–30 minutes until tender.
Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the lentils from getting too mushy in the chili.
Step 4: Build the Chili
In a large pan, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic, red pepper, chopped chilis, and spices (cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, and ground coriander). Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld.
Next, pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, mix, and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add the Squash & Lentils
Stir in the roasted butternut squash, cooked lentils, coconut milk, and honey. Allow everything to simmer for another 5–7 minutes. If the chili looks too thick or dry, add a splash of water and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Finally, add the soy sauce and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for a further 2–3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
Serve
You can serve the chili immediately, but for the best flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge and reheat it the next day.
When serving, garnish with fresh cilantro and a spoonful of vegan yogurt. Pair it with cilantro lime rice, naan bread, or a cucumber salad for a wholesome meal.
What to Serve with Loyal Lentil Chili
Not sure what sides to pair with your chili? Here are some family favorites:
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy white rice mixed with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. It’s vibrant and adds a zesty touch that complements the chili perfectly.
- Peshwari Naan Bread: Take your regular naan up a notch by stuffing it with ground almonds, desiccated coconut, and spices. This sweet and fluffy bread is perfect for scooping up the chili.
- Easy Raita: A cooling yogurt sauce that balances out the spice in the chili. It’s perfect for kids or anyone sensitive to heat.
- Mango Chutney: Made with ripe mangoes and spices, this chutney adds a touch of sweetness to each bite. It pairs wonderfully with both the chili and naan.
Final Thoughts
When you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that everyone can enjoy, this Loyal Lentil Chili is your go-to. It’s quick to make—ready in under an hour—and perfect for prepping in advance.
Letting it sit overnight really enhances the flavors, so you can come home to a warm, delicious meal. Pair it with some simple sides, and you’ve got a family feast that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
We love making a big batch and storing leftovers for a busy weeknight. Give this recipe a try, and bring a bowl of cozy comfort to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Loyal Lentil Chili a Curry?
With its blend of spices and creamy coconut milk, it does have curry-like qualities. It all depends on how you look at it, but either way, it’s delicious!
What Lentils Are Best for Loyal Lentil Chili?
Any type of lentil will work. Red lentils cook down to a softer texture, while beluga or puy lentils hold their shape for a heartier bite.
Is Loyal Lentil Chili Healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with protein and fiber from lentils, promoting muscle function and digestion. Just be mindful that coconut milk adds richness, so adjust the amount if you’re watching fat content.
