Skyline Lentil Chili Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 10 servings

Seasoning Mix:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder, or more to taste
• (1 ounce) square unsweetened chocolate, grated
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon cayenne pepper
• teaspoon ground allspice
• teaspoon ground cloves

Lentil Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or as needed
• 2 cups diced onions
• 2 cups diced green bell pepper
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups dry lentils
• 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• cup water, or as needed (Optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, grated unsweetened chocolate, garlic powder, cinnamon, cumin, bay leaf, salt, cayenne pepper, allspice, and cloves. Stir until the seasoning mix is well blended.
2. In a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dry lentils. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the lentils to soften.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, seasoning mix, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue to simmer the chili for 1 hour, adding water as necessary if the chili becomes too thick.
5. Once the chili has reached the desired consistency, remove the bay leaf.
6. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the chili until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Cook's Notes

If you want this to be vegan, use a vegan Worcestershire sauce.

If you're not familiar with Cincinnati-style chili, it differs from traditional chili. Its a warm-spiced sauce typically served over spaghetti, as a dip with crackers, or on bread, and topped with Cheddar cheese.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.