Nourishing Lentil & Black Bean Chilli with Peas, Rice and Peri Peri Tofu

This nourishing lentil and black bean chilli is a hearty, plant-based dish packed with protein, vibrant flavours, and wholesome ingredients. Served with fragrant pea rice, spicy peri peri tofu, and charred tenderstem broccoli and baby corn, it’s a perfect recipe for a satisfying and healthy meal. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Lentil & Black Bean Chilli

• 1 tin of black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 300g brown lentils (soaked in 500ml veg stock for 20 minutes, save stock)
• 1 red onion, diced
• 350g chestnut mushrooms, diced
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 1 freshly chopped chilli
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ cup tomato purée
• 1 cup nutritional yeast
• Glug of olive oil

For the Petit Pois Rice

• 300g brown rice (soaked for 15 minutes and rinsed)
• 150g petit pois peas
• 1L vegetable stock
• Glug of olive oil

For the Peri Peri Tofu

• 1 block firm tofu (pressed for 10–15 minutes and diced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Glug of olive oil

For the Sautéed Tenderstem Broccoli & Baby Corn

• 1 bunch tenderstem broccoli
• 1 cup baby corn
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 1 chilli, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Glug of olive oil

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Lentil & Black Bean Chilli

1. Heat a glug of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and mushrooms, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and the mushrooms soften.
3. Stir in half the garlic and chilli, followed by the paprika and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the tomato purée, black beans, and soaked lentils. Pour in the reserved lentil stock.
5. Stir in the nutritional yeast, mix well, and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Petit Pois Rice

1. Heat a glug of olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
2. Add the drained brown rice and fry for 1–2 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the petit pois peas during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Make the Peri Peri Tofu

1. Place the diced tofu in a bowl and season with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat a glug of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tofu and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally.

Step 4: Sauté the Tenderstem Broccoli & Baby Corn

1. Heat a glug of olive oil in a hot frying pan.
2. Add the tenderstem broccoli and baby corn, sautéing until lightly charred but not burnt.
3. Add the remaining garlic and chilli, sautéing for another minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Instructions

1. Spoon the lentil and black bean chilli into bowls.
2. Add a serving of petit pois rice to one side.
3. Top with crispy peri peri tofu.
4. Garnish with sautéed tenderstem broccoli and baby corn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with plant-based protein, fibre, and vitamins.
• Customisable: Adjust the spice level or swap in your favourite vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for a quick and healthy meal later.

Tips for Success

• Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for optimal crispiness.
• Stir the chilli occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
• Use fresh, high-quality vegetable stock for the best flavour.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for added crunch.
• Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
• Serve alongside warm flatbread for a complete meal.

This lentil and black bean chilli with petit pois rice, peri peri tofu, and sautéed vegetables is a delicious, healthy option for any occasion. Its bold flavours and nourishing ingredients make it a standout dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying solo. Try it today for a plant-based meal that’s packed with taste and goodness!