Hearty Lentil Chili

As summer fades into fall, welcome the start of soup season with a tasty bowl of lentil chili! This easy recipe is great for a dinner at home or shared with friends at a party.

½ pound extra lean ground beef

1½ cups onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, crushed

2 cups cooked, drained lentils

1 can (29 ounces) tomatoes, diced or crushed

1 tablespoon chili powder

½ teaspoon ground cumin

In a large saucepan, brown beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Drain the fat and reduce to medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking on medium heat until softened. Reduce heat and add cooked lentils, tomatoes, chili powder and cumin. Cook on low heat for about one hour until flavors are blended. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Yield: 6 servings. Serving size: 1 cup. Each serving provides 210 calories, 4.5g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 16g protein and 470mg sodium.

Source: www.choosemyplate.gov