Savory Chocolate Mole Lentil Stew

Ingredients

• 200 g brown lentils
• 1 large, diced onion
• 2, diced carrots
• 2 sticks, diced celery
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 400 g canned diced tomatoes
• 1, diced bell pepper
• 1 litre vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp cacao powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• a handful, chopped fresh coriander
• 1, juiced lime
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

Steps

1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. 2. Add the minced garlic, bell pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and smoked paprika, and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. 3. Stir in the brown lentils, canned diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
4. 4. Reduce heat and let the stew simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. 5. Add the cacao powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. 6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

Notes

• The chocolate adds depth and a unique richness to the stew, enhancing the overall flavour.

Substitutions

• If cacao powder is unavailable, unsweetened cocoa powder can be used.