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Vegetarian Mexican Lentils Recipe

4.7 from 118 reviews

A hearty and flavorful Vegetarian Mexican Lentils recipe packed with nutritious ingredients such as brown lentils, sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner and is topped with melted cheddar cheese for added richness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup diced sweet potatoes (1/2 inch pieces)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 2 cups broth of choice (vegetable or chicken broth recommended)
  • Cheddar cheese, amount to your liking, shredded

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and sauté onion: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  2. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the sweet potatoes start to soften.
  3. Add lentils, beans, tomatoes, corn, and broth: Pour in the rinsed brown lentils, black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), frozen corn, and 2 cups of broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Simmer until lentils are tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are fully cooked and tender.
  5. Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
  • Adjust chili powder amount based on your preferred spice level.
  • For a creamier texture, mash some of the lentils after cooking.
  • Can be served over rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Mexican lentils, vegetarian lentil stew, sweet potato lentils, Mexican comfort food, healthy lentil recipe