Mixed Grains Chili

Discover a hearty and flavorful dish with this Mixed Lentil and Grain Chili recipe. Packed with a variety of lentils, grains, and spices, this chili is a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to prepare and immensely rewarding. With a generous serving size of 12 and a total cooking time of 55 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for gatherings or meal prep. Let’s dive into the details of this nutritious and delicious chili.

Servings: 12

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 55 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 3 tablespoons red chili powder
• Salt and ground black pepper, as required
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 canned chipotle pepper, minced
• 1 Serrano pepper, finely chopped and seeded
• 2/3 cup bulgur wheat
• 2/3 cup pearl barley
• 2¼ cups mixed lentils (green, black, brown), rinsed
• 1½ cups canned chickpeas
• 3 scallions, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

Follow these straightforward steps to create your Mixed Lentil and Grain Chili:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped shallots and yellow onion for about 4-5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the Spice: Stir in the finely grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 3 tablespoons of red chili powder. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
3. Incorporate Tomatoes and Peppers: Add the can of crushed tomatoes, minced canned chipotle pepper, and finely chopped and seeded Serrano pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Combine Grains and Legumes: Stir in 2/3 cup of bulgur wheat, 2/3 cup of pearl barley, 2¼ cups of mixed rinsed lentils, and 1½ cups of canned chickpeas. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 35-45 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
6. Garnish with Scallions: Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped scallions on top of the chili for added freshness and a burst of color.
7. Serve Hot: Your Mixed Lentil and Grain Chili is now ready to be enjoyed. Ladle it into bowls, and savor the robust flavors and textures.

TIPS:

Here are some valuable tips to ensure your Mixed Lentil and Grain Chili turns out perfectly:

• Use a variety of lentils, such as green, black, and brown, for a diverse texture and flavor profile.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of red chili powder and peppers to suit your taste.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or toppings, like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese, for extra flavor and freshness.
• This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating for a quick meal.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per Serving):

• Calories: 351
• Fat: 4.9g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fiber: 21.8g
• Sugar: 8.2g
• Protein: 18.6g

This Mixed Lentil and Grain Chili is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious and filling meal. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of grains and legumes into your diet while enjoying a delightful combination of spices. Share this chili with family and friends, and relish the wholesome goodness it brings to your table.