"This lentil chili tastes like everything you love about chili — filled with smoky spices and lots of rich tomato flavor — but it goes lighter than the meat-filled version, thanks to the addition of barely sweet butternut squash and hearty lentils. Lentils are the perfect candidate for a meat-free chili. They cook up earthy and meaty, and there's no browning or precooking necessary.

"This hearty vegan chili comes together easily with the aid of a slow cooker. All you have to do is mix everything together, turn it on, and come back to a bowl of comforting vegan chili.

"Top this hearty chili with buttery avocado chunks and cilantro for some freshness. A dash of your favorite hot sauce and some hunks of cornbread alongside can turn this chili into a warming winter meal."