1. Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion, garlic, jalapeño, and the assorted peppers. Don’t rush this step; the fresher the ingredients, the better the result!
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced onion, minced garlic, diced jalapeño, red pepper, yellow pepper, and diced carrot. This mix will form the flavor base of your chili.
3. Now, add the rinsed brown lentils and the red beans to the bowl. These legumes not only contribute protein but also give the chili its hearty texture.
4. Next, pour in the vegetable broth, along with the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy, this is where the flavor really comes alive!
6. Give the mixture a good stir, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. You want each bite to be packed with flavor!
7. Transfer everything to your slow cooker, spreading it evenly. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will yield a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
8. Once cooking is done, check the consistency. If it’s too thick, adding a little more broth can help. If it’s too runny, let it cook a bit longer with the lid off to thicken up.
9. When ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings, such as avocado or cheese, if desired.
10. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Lentil Chili and share it with friends and family. It’s sure to be a hit!
