Chilli black beans and lentils

Chilli black beans and lentils is a easy Irish recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Neven Maguire on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min

Cost: $27.14 total, $6.79 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Rapeseed Oil (for sautéing vegetables)
  • 1 large Onion (finely diced)
  • 2 sticks Celery Stalks (diced)
  • 1 medium Carrot (peeled and diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced (optional))
  • 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers (diced; char‑grilled or jarred)
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder (Irish‑sourced blend)
  • 1 teaspoon Harissa Spice (organic, adds heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Spicy Red Pepper Blend (Oko) (adds depth; optional)
  • 2 teaspoons Double Concentrated Tomato Puree (adds richness)
  • 1 can (400g) San Marzano Whole Tomatoes (crushed; high‑quality Italian tomatoes)
  • 1 cup Vegetable Stock (low‑sodium; can use broth cubes dissolved in water)
  • 1 cup Red Lentils (rinsed)
  • 1 can (400g) Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Basil (chopped just before serving)
  • to taste Sea Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 4 pieces Flatbread (grilled lightly in oil)
  • 1 cup Wexford Yogurt (plain, full‑fat; can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • 1 small Lime (cut into wedges for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil

    Place the skillet over medium heat and add the rapeseed oil. Let it warm for about 2 minutes until it shimmers.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  2. Sauté Aromatics

    Add the finely diced onion, celery sticks, and carrot to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: medium heat

  3. Add Peppers and Spices

    Stir in the diced roasted red peppers, curry powder, harissa spice, Oko spicy red pepper blend, and the double‑concentrated tomato puree. Cook for 2 minutes to release the aromas.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Stock

    Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes (including their juice) and the vegetable stock. Stir to combine.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  5. Add Lentils

    Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, give everything a good stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  6. Simmer

    Reduce the heat, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The lentils should be tender but not mushy.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: low simmer

  7. Finish with Beans and Herbs

    Stir in the drained black beans, chopped fresh basil, and season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes just to warm the beans.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  8. Prepare Flatbread

    Heat a little oil in a griddle pan over medium‑high heat. Lightly brush each flatbread with oil and grill for 1 minute per side until warm and slightly crisp.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  9. Plate and Serve

    Ladle the chili into bowls, add a generous spoonful of Wexford yogurt on the side, drizzle a little lime juice, and serve with the warm flatbread.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
8g
Fiber
12g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free (if using gluten‑free flatbread), High‑Fiber

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 19, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Chilli black beans and lentils

Recipe by Neven Maguire

A hearty, meat‑free chili made with red lentils, black beans, roasted red peppers, San Marzano tomatoes and a blend of Irish‑sourced spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, it stores well for several days and pairs perfectly with warm flatbread and a dollop of creamy Wexford yogurt.

EasyIrishServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
6m
Prep
32m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
48m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$27.14
Total cost
$6.79
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Sauté the onion, celery, and carrot until softened – this builds the flavor base.
  • Simmer the lentils with enough liquid; under‑cooking or too‑dry results in a gritty texture.
  • Add fresh basil at the very end to keep its aroma bright.
  • Stir in the canned black beans only at the end to prevent them from breaking down.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter – keep a safe distance and use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Use a sturdy cutting board and keep fingertips curled when chopping onions, celery, and carrots.
  • Handle the skillet handles with oven mitts to avoid burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of black bean and red lentil chili in Irish cuisine?

A

While traditional Irish cooking rarely features chili, modern Irish chefs like Neven Maguire have embraced global flavors, creating hearty, meat‑free stews that reflect Ireland’s growing interest in plant‑based comfort food. This dish blends Irish pantry staples (potatoes, beans) with Mediterranean tomatoes and North‑African spices, showcasing Ireland’s culinary openness.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of chili‑style dishes in Irish cuisine?

A

In Ireland, bean stews such as "baked beans" or "coddle" are common, often using pork or sausages. Vegetarian twists replace meat with lentils or beans, and some coastal versions add smoked fish. The black bean and lentil chili is a contemporary twist that swaps the usual pork for legumes and adds exotic spices.

cultural
Q

How is black bean and red lentil chili traditionally served in Ireland?

A

It is typically served hot with a slice of soda bread or flatbread, accompanied by a dollop of thick Irish yogurt or crème fraîche. A drizzle of fresh lime or lemon juice is sometimes added for brightness, and the dish is enjoyed as a comforting main during cooler months.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is black bean and red lentil chili associated with in Irish culture?

A

The dish is popular for casual family meals, post‑sport gatherings, and as a hearty option for St. Patrick’s Day when many seek vegetarian alternatives. Its make‑ahead nature also makes it ideal for weekend pot‑lucks and community events.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for black bean and red lentil chili versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Key authentic ingredients include Irish‑sourced rapeseed oil, high‑quality San Marzano tomatoes, and locally produced Wexford yogurt. Substitutes can be olive oil, regular canned tomatoes, or Greek yogurt without significantly altering the flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What other Irish dishes pair well with black bean and red lentil chili?

A

Pair it with traditional Irish soda bread, buttered potatoes, or a simple mixed green salad dressed with a mustard vinaigrette. For a fuller meal, serve alongside colcannon (mashed potatoes with kale) or a side of roasted root vegetables.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making black bean and red lentil chili?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the lentils until they turn mushy, not adding enough liquid which leads to a dry pot, and adding the canned beans too early, causing them to break down. Also, over‑toasting the spices can make the dish bitter.

technical
Q

Why does this black bean and red lentil chili recipe use a short simmer with a lid instead of a rapid boil?

A

A gentle simmer with the lid on traps steam, cooking the lentils evenly while preventing excess evaporation. A rapid boil can break the lentils apart and cause the sauce to reduce too quickly, resulting in a gritty texture.

technical
Q

Can I make black bean and red lentil chili ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the chili keeps well for 4–5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze in portion‑sized bags for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if it has thickened.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Neven Maguire specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Neven Maguire focuses on modern Irish home cooking, showcasing seasonal ingredients, quick weeknight meals, and traditional Irish dishes with contemporary twists. Neven often emphasizes fresh produce, simple techniques, and family‑friendly flavors.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Neven Maguire's approach to Irish cooking differ from other Irish cooking channels?

A

Neven Maguire blends classic Irish comfort food with global influences, using spices like harissa and curry powder while still highlighting Irish produce such as Wexford yogurt. His style is relaxed, kitchen‑focused, and geared toward home cooks looking for flavorful, time‑efficient meals.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Steamed Lentils with Green Beans and Semolina
7

Steamed Lentils with Green Beans and Semolina

A complete and healthy dish cooked by steaming in three layers: lentils flavored with curry and coconut milk, spiced green beans, and medium wheat semolina. Ideal for a protein- and fiber-rich vegan meal.

2 hrs 10 minServes 4$6
Indian
Dal Punjabi with lentils and red kidney beans
11

Dal Punjabi with lentils and red kidney beans

A flavorful dal originating from the Punjab, made with lentils, red kidney beans, Indian spices and fresh cream. Perfect with rice, chapatis or naan bread.

50 minServes 3$3
Indian
Cuban-Style Black Beans with Plantains and Rice
11

Cuban-Style Black Beans with Plantains and Rice

A hearty, vegan Cuban-inspired meal featuring slow‑cooked black beans seasoned with garlic, onion, green bell pepper, lime, and cilantro, served over fluffy white rice and accompanied by sweet fried plantains.

2 hrs 5 minServes 4$5
Cuban
How to Make Restaurant-Style Mexican Black Beans
7

How to Make Restaurant-Style Mexican Black Beans

A quick, restaurant-quality Mexican black bean side dish that mimics the flavorful beans served at your favorite Mexican restaurant. Made with whole canned beans, aromatic onion, garlic, cumin, and a touch of cayenne, this easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with tacos, burritos, rice, or any Mexican meal.

22 minServes 4$2
Mexican
Cuban Black Beans From A Can
8

Cuban Black Beans From A Can

A quick and authentic Cuban black beans recipe made from canned beans. Perfect as a side dish for rice, this one‑pot meal is flavorful, easy, and ready in under an hour.

47 minServes 4$2
Cuban
BLACK LENTILS WITH RED KIDNEY BEANS finished with delicious chilli garlic tadka
8

BLACK LENTILS WITH RED KIDNEY BEANS finished with delicious chilli garlic tadka

A creamy, hearty Indian dal made with black lentils (whole urad dal) and red kidney beans, slow‑cooked with garlic, tomato puree, homemade garam masala and finished with a fragrant garlic‑cumin tadka. Perfect with naan or paratha and great for meal‑prepping.

7 hrs 50 minServes 6$15
Indian