This is a common dish that I like to eat on cold days and for the most part it’s a common recipe but with a twist.
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk briefly about comfort food. Comfort food is something that brings us a sense of nostalgia and warmth, typically associated with our childhood or happy memories. It’s often simple and familiar, but still manages to make us feel content and satisfied.
And for me, one dish that always hits the spot as a comfort food is a nice bowl of chili and any form of bread to go along with it. But today, I’m going to share with you my own twist on this classic dish – a hearty and flavorful vegetarian curry chili and instead of corn bread like I love to have with my chili it is naan. This complements it so nice because of the curry.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a vegetarian chili? How can that possibly be as satisfying as the traditional meat-based version? Well, let me tell you, this recipe will not disappoint. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils, and loaded with bold flavors from spices and vegetables, this curry chili is just as hearty and filling as any meat-based chili out there.
Now, don’t let the word “vegetarian” scare you off. This chili is packed with so much flavor and texture that even meat lovers won’t miss the absence of meat. (My son, a huge meat lover even enjoyed this!) Plus, it’s a great option for those who are looking to reduce their meat intake or follow a plant-based diet.
– Lentils are a type of legume that are highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
– One cup of cooked lentils (198 grams) contains approximately:
– Calories: 230
– Carbohydrates: 40 grams
– Protein: 18 grams
– Fiber: 16 grams
– Fat: 0.8 grams
– Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
– They are also rich in dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and promote feelings of fullness.
– Lentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing the body with sustained energy without causing spikes in blood sugar levels.
– They are high in iron, which is important for maintaining healthy red blood cells and preventing anemia.
– Lentils also contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain heart health.
– Other essential nutrients found in lentils include magnesium, folate, zinc, and vitamin B6.
– Consuming lentils may also have health benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease, improving gut health, and promoting weight loss.
– Next time you’re looking for a nutritious and versatile ingredient to add to your meals, consider incorporating nutrient-rich lentils into your diet.
So, now you know some great benefits of this dish let’s get to the recipe.
Curry Chili:
1 14-ounce bag of green lentils rinsed and drained.
5 cloves of garlic diced.
1 small white onion diced.
1 15-ounce of tomato sauce
1 Tablespoon of vegetable bouillon
1-2 Tablespoon of olive oil
The following seasonings per your taste, curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, red pepper flakes, paprika powder, coriander powder, pinch of salt and pepper.
To prepare the lentils for cooking, start by rinsing them in a colander under cool water. This will help remove any debris or impurities that may be present. After rinsing, drain the lentils and discard any shriveled or discolored ones.
In a large pot over medium heat add olive oil, onion, garlic and all seasonings but only half of what you would like for this dish. Sauté until opinion is translucent. Add cleaned lentils, can tomato sauce, vegetable bouillon and enough water to cover them, add reimaging seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Naan:
Naan is a type of flatbread that is commonly found in Indian cuisine. It is typically made with flour, water, and yeast, and can be flavored with various herbs and spices. In this recipe, I swapped out the yeast and water for yogurt giving this a simple but so delicious version of naan using just a few ingredients.
2 cups flour
1 1/4 of plain unsweetened Greek yogurt
2 Teaspoons of baking powder
pinch of salt
Mix all ingredients together and roll into small balls (about 12). Roll out the ball dough into small flat circles. Cook the naan in a skillet over medium/high heat (you may need to add some oil to your pan, but I did not) for about 2 minutes on each side. Serve hot and enjoy.
