Reasons to love this chili with chickpeas
This meal is seriously the easiest and most economical way to add a lil’ comfort to your week. It makes a lot so enjoy all the leftovers, a.k.a. a busy parent’s best friend. Am I right or am I right? ;). You can also freeze some for a quick, future meal. This dish is especially awesome to make when you’re going to be out and about all day with the kids. Simply dump all the ingredients into your slow cooker, set the timer, and you’ll come home to a meal that’s ready to be devoured. It will be evenly more amazing with this healthy homemade cornbread – so moist!
Ingredients
Lentils – You can use either brown or green lentils. I don’t recommend red or yellow lentils as the chili will turn out too mushy. But you can use them to make these delicious lentil balls! Chickpeas – feel free to swap with any other bean. Here’s the ultimate guide to chickpeas for babies. Sweet potatoes– Adds a lovely sweetness and body to the chili. Spices – You can start with 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder if you are feeling especially anxious about introducing fiery spices to your baby. I will say, though, that even with 1 teaspoon, it won’t really be spicy because of all the other ingredients. Related post: Herbs and Spices for Baby Food
Instructions
Will keep this short. Dump all the ingredients. Set it to cook on low for 5 hours. Go about your day! You’re welcome ;).
Tips for Success
This is a THICK chili and that’s intentional as it will be much easier (and less messy) for babies and toddlers to eat with either their hands or spoon. If you desire a thinner consistency, I HIGHLY recommend adding some full-fat coconut milk at the end! It’s SOO good. You can also add more broth. This recipe makes A LOT. You can absolutely freeze to enjoy later.
Serving and Topping Suggestions
You can enjoy this chickpea lentil chili in a bowl with various toppings as suggested below OR Grab some tortillas. The chili is thick and chunky so makes for a perfect filling for tacos/burritos. You can even add some cheese and enjoy as a quesadilla.
Toppings
Lime juice – really brightens everything up. This is a MUST in my opinion. Cilantro or parsley Cheese Sour cream or yogurt Avocado
How to make on the stovetop
How to serve chili to babies
For 6-8 months: Transfer a small portion to a bowl and mash with the back of a spoon. You want to make sure that the chickpeas are smooshed. Mix in some cilantro and lime juice! You can also add some coconut milk or yogurt. Serve alongside a big avocado wedge. If you’re looking for an awesome non-toxic suction plate and bowl, we absolutely LOVE these! The spoon is included in the same post as well. For 9-12 months: There’s no need to mash Related Post: How to serve the right food size and texture
How to serve to chili to toddlers and kids
Kids love to have choices and a sense of control over what they eat. So I encourage you to serve the chili alongside various toppings to invite fun as well as increase the chances of them eating the meal you served. Or try serving family style! Lately, my son has been refusing to eat shredded cheese but will happily eat it sliced or in sticks. Toddlers…so hard to please. The other day he was so upset that I cut his banana. Lord help me. Stainless dinnerware set can be found here. Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
