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Vegetarian Chili (Chili sin Carne) with Grünkern
Elle

Vegetarian Chili sin Carne with Grünkern (Chili De Frijoles)

5 from 1 vote
A simple and healthy vegetarian chili made with the German grain, Grünkern. Easily substituted with spelt, freekeh or other grain of choice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 288

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 small yellow onions, chopped
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red pepper, diced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 x 400 g can organic chopped tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup Grünkern (150 g)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 x 400 g can kidney beans
  • 1 fresh red chili deseeded and membrane removed, thinly sliced
  • 1 square dark chocolate (70% cacao) (10 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 lime, quartered
To garnish (optional)
  • fresh herbs such as flat-leaf parsley or cilantro
  • sprinkling of chili flakes for extra heat
  • sliced avocado

Instructions
 

  1. In a large non-stick saucepan heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is transparent, about 6-7 minutes.
  2. Add the red pepper and carrot and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Add the spices and stir for 1 minute.
  3. Next add the chopped tomato, Grünkern and water. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat slightly and cook for 30 minutes.
  4. Add the kidney beans and fresh chili, cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the chocolate, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until chocolate melted and well combined.
  5. Serve into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with a wedge of lime.

Nutrition

Calories: 288kcal

Notes

  • I added the fresh chili at the end as I like it’s fresh flavors. But if you prefer you can add it along with the red pepper and carrots. This will mellow it’s flavor. Be sure to remove the white membranes along with the seeds, unless you like things spicy. This is where the heat is.
  • I serve the lime on the side, but you could also squeeze a whole lime in with the Chili sin Carne before serving. For me, lime is a must, as it adds the perfect amount of fresh and brightly flavored acidity.
  • I like to serve this over blanched spinach.
  • When reheating leftovers you may want to add a little more water, as the Grünkern will soak up some of the liquid as it sits.

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