Smoky Lentil Chili with Squash

Start cooking opens one step at a time with read-aloud and hands-free voice control — “next”, “repeat”, “how much salt”, “timer 10 minutes”.

1. 1Begin by roasting the squash. Cut the it into thin crescents and drizzle with a little oil and scatter with sea salt. I added a fresh little sage I had in the fridge, but it’s unnecessary.
2. 2RoastRoast the squash a 205 C (400 F) for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until soft and golden. Let cool and chop the into cubes.
3. 3In the meantime, rinse the lentils and cover them with water. Bring them to the boil then turn down to a simmer and let cook (uncovered) for 20-30 minutes, or until tender. Tip into a colander and drain and keep to one side.
4. 4While the lentils are cooking heat the 1 Tbsp. of oil on low in a medium pot. Add the onions and leeks and sauté for 5 or so minutes, or until they begin to soften.
5. 5Add the garlic next along with the cumin and coriander, cooking for a few more minutes. Add the remaining spices – paprika, cinnamon, chilli, cocoa, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and oregano.
6. 6Next add the can of tomatoes, the water or stock, and carrots. Let simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until the veg is tender and the mixture has thickened up.
7. 7You’ll need to check on the pot periodically for a stir and a top of of liquid if needed.
8. 8Add the lentils and chopped roasted squash. Let let it cook for 10 more minutes to heat through.
9. 9ServeServe with sliced jalapeno, lime wedges, cilantro, green onions, and cashew sour cream.
10. 10SIMPLE CASHEW SOUR CREAM.
11. 111 Cup Raw Unsalted Cashews.
12. 12Pinch Sea Salt.
13. 131 tsp. Apple Cider Vinegar.
14. 14Water.
15. 15Bring some water to the boil, and use it to soak the cashews for at least four hours.
16. 16Alternatively, you can use cold water and let the cashews soak overnight, but I’m forgetful/lazy, so often use the boil method which is much faster.
17. 17After the cashews have soaked, drain them and add to a high speed blender. Begin to puree, slowly adding about 1/2 cup fresh water, until a creamy consistency is reached.
18. 18You may need to add less or more water to reach the desired consistency.
19. 19Add a pinch of sea salt and vinegar (or lemon juice).