We love chili, and this one uses mushrooms instead of meat to give it that tummy-filling body we love. And the addition of the lime juice and zest make it bright tasting and zesty!

Although Coriander the spice, and Cilantro the herb, both come from the same plant, they taste very different. Coriander has a light lemony taste, while Cilantro tastes “soapy” or “grassy” to many people. (If you are not a Cilantro fan, try substituting Parsley.) Coriander/Cilantro is a wonderful source of dietary fiber, manganese, iron and magnesium as well. In addition, coriander leaves are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K and protein. They also contain small amounts of calcium, phosphorous, potassium, thiamin, niacin and carotene.

Zesty Mushroom Chili

  • 1 (16 OZ) Pkg Baby Bella Mushrooms, quartered
  • 3 TB Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
  • Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper
  • 3 Cups Chopped Red Onion
  • 3 Cups Chopped Red Bell Peppers
  • 3 Grated Garlic Cloves
  • 2 Cans (15 OZ) Fire Roasted Tomatoes or 1 Large Can
  • 1 Can (15 OZ) Black Beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 TB WW Flour
  • 1 TB Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • 1 TB Each Cumin, Chili Powder, Coriander and Smoked Paprika
  • Zest of 1 Lime
  • Hot Sauce if desired
  • Garnishes like Chopped Cilantro, Yogurt, Cheese, Avocadoes
  • Corn Tortillas

Step One

Chop the mushrooms into fine pieces in a food processor, working in 2 batches. Add 2 TB oil to a cast iron skillet or heavy sauté pan. Season the mushrooms well with salt and pepper and cook and stir for about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step Two

In the same skillet, sauté the onion and peppers in the olive oil until very soft about 8 – 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until aromatic about 1 minute.

Step Three

Add the tomatoes and beans and bring to a simmer. Stir in the flour, cocoa, spices until well incorporated. Cook and stir cook until aromatic about 1 minute. Add the mushrooms and cook and stir for another 10 – 15 minutes or until the flavors are well combined. Stir in the lime zest and taste for any additional salt and pepper or hot sauce! Serve with your choice of garnishes and warm corn tortillas.

X