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Ancho Lentils

I made this up the other day when I had no idea what to make for dinner. I served it under poached eggs. My kids mentioned it would work wonderfully as a taco filling. There's probably several other uses, too! The ancho gives it a bit of heat without being overpowering.

5.0 · 4 reviewsRecipe card by ElmotooEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
BeansLow ProteinVeganLow CholesterolHealthyWeeknight
Ancho Lentils

Total time

40 min

Servings

8

Calories

82.6

Category

Lentil

Looking for a hearty, smoky, and nutrient-dense meal that comes together in under an hour? These Ancho Lentils are a flavor-packed, vegan staple perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring the deep, earthy heat of dried ancho chiles paired with fiber-rich lentils, this budget-friendly recipe is as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you serve them as a standalone bowl, over quinoa, or as a savory taco filling, this low-cholesterol dish is destined to become a favorite in your plant-based rotation.

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

  • 1 canola oil
  • 1 chili pepper
  • 1 onion
  • 2 lentils
  • 6 water
  • salt

Method

  1. Heat oil. Add the ancho pepper & swirl around in oil while it heats.

  2. Add chopped onion & saute until softened & slightly caramelized. Don't rush this, it will take a few minutes.

  3. Add lentils & water or stock. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer & cook until liquid has been absorbed & lentils are cooked. Season with salt to taste.

Cook's notes

  • For a deeper flavor profile, sauté your aromatics (onions and garlic) until golden brown before adding the lentils.
  • If you prefer a thicker, stew-like consistency, mash a small portion of the cooked lentils with a fork before serving.
  • Ensure your lentils are thoroughly rinsed and picked over to remove any small stones or debris before cooking.

Easy swaps

  • If ancho chiles are unavailable, use 1 tablespoon of high-quality chili powder or a teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smokier kick.
  • Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape; avoid red lentils, which tend to turn into a puree.
  • Boost the protein content by serving alongside brown rice or quinoa to create a complete amino acid profile.

Frequently asked

Are these Ancho Lentils low in protein?

While lentils are naturally a great source of plant-based protein, this specific recipe is balanced to be nutritionally accessible for those watching their intake while remaining highly satiating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! These lentils are excellent for meal prep. They reheat beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave and hold up well to refrigeration.

Are ancho chiles spicy?

Ancho chiles are very mild on the Scoville scale. They provide a rich, fruity, and smoky flavor rather than an intense heat.

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