Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice: A Healthy Delight

 

Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal that will satisfy your cravings? Look no further! Our Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of delicious flavors, this dish will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

To make this Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 200g easy-cook brown rice
• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
• 2 peppers (any color), deseeded and finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 500ml passata
• 500ml vegetable stock, made with 2 tsp vegetable bouillon powder
• 150g red lentils
• 1 tsp thyme leaves
• 400g can black beans
• 2 avocados, peeled, stoned, halved, and mashed or cut into cubes
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
• 2 vine tomatoes, chopped
• ⅓ x 30g pack of coriander, chopped

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat and fry the peppers for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add the garlic and spices to the pan, stirring briefly, then pour in the passata and vegetable stock.
3. Stir in the red lentils and thyme, then cover the pan and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the mixture becomes pulpy.
4. Add the black beans along with the liquid from the can, re-cover the pan, and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes.
5. While the chili is simmering, cook the brown rice according to the instructions on the package.
6. In a separate bowl, combine half of the mashed or cubed avocados with lime juice, red onion, red chili, vine tomatoes, and chopped coriander to make the guacamole.
7. Serve half of the cooked rice and chili mixture between two plates, and top with the guacamole.
8. The remaining chili and rice can be cooled and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
9. When ready to serve the leftovers, reheat the chili in a pan over low heat with a splash of water until piping hot. Reheat the rice in the microwave.
10. Make a fresh batch of guacamole by combining the remaining avocados, lime juice, red onion, red chili, vine tomatoes, and chopped coriander. Serve the guacamole on top of the reheated chili and rice.

Nutritional Benefits

This Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Let's take a look at some of the key nutritional benefits of this dish:

• Protein: Red lentils and black beans are excellent sources of plant-based protein, providing the body with essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Fiber: Lentils, black beans, and brown rice are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and avocados in this recipe provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
• Antioxidants: The spices used in this recipe, such as smoked paprika and ground coriander, contain antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavors and textures of this Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice recipe, consider the following serving suggestions:

• Toppings: Sprinkle some chopped fresh coriander, sliced jalapenos, or grated vegan cheese on top of the chili for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Sides: Serve the chili with a side of warm corn tortillas, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
• Variations: Customize the recipe to your liking by adding additional vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Spicy Red Lentil Chilli with Guacamole & Rice recipe is a perfect choice for those seeking a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater or looking to incorporate more meatless meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to impress. By combining the rich flavors of red lentils and black beans with the creamy goodness of guacamole, you'll create a dish that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Give it a try and experience the delightful combination of flavors firsthand!

Note: Please consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.