Mushroom Chili

Cremini mushrooms are so very versatile. Use them in veggie burgers, stir-fries, or

in this mushroom chili, which is sure to please a crowd! And despite the deceptively long list of ingredients, this hearty and healthy dish is quite simple and very much worth the (little bit of) effort!

Mushroom Chili 

Ingredients

 1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar

 1 ½ cups onion (diced)

 1 tsp salt (optional)

 1 tbsp mild chili powder

 2 tsp dried oregano

 1 tsp smoked paprika

 ¼ tsp cinnamon (or allspice)

 ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)

 1 lb cremini mushrooms (+½ lb as desired, roughly chopped, about 7–8 cups)

 4 garlic cloves (+1 as desired, minced)

 1 cup green or red bell pepper (diced)

 28 oz organic crushed tomatoes (BPA-free can)

 1 ¾ cups pinto beans or kidney beans (home cooked or BPA-free canned, drained)

 ½ cup dry red lentils (rinsed very well and drained)

 ½ cup water

 ½ tsp pure maple syrup (optional, +½ tsp as desired)

 1 cup organic corn kernels (or substitute more cooked beans)

 lime wedges (for serving)

 hot sauce (for serving, optional)

Directions

1

In a large pot over medium heat, add the vinegar, onion, salt (if using), and spices and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2

Add the mushrooms and let cook for about 5–7 minutes, until they release their juices and begin to reduce. Do not add water, let the juices release from the mushrooms.

3

After this time, add the garlic and peppers, reduce heat, and stir for a couple of minutes.

4

Add the crushed tomatoes, beans, lentils, and water, and stir to combine. Increase heat to bring to a boil.

5

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, until lentils are fully cooked through and almost dissolved.

6

Taste, and add maple syrup and/or extra salt/pepper to balance flavor as desired.

7

Add corn, and stir. Let sit for a few minutes until the corn has warmed through.

8

Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce, if desired.

Chef's Notes

Serving Suggestion
Serve as a taco bowl, layering over cooked quinoa or grains, with fresh chopped vegetables and guacamole!

https://foodrevolution.org/recipes/mushroom-chili/