Watermelon Rind Lentil Chili - Watermelon Board

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced peeled watermelon rind with thin layer of pink flesh attached (1/2 inch pieces)
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 2 tbsp. chili powder
• 3 tsp. ground cumin
• 2 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 can (28 oz.) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 2 cans (each 19oz.) lentils, drained and rinsed (or pre-cooked lentils)
• 1 can (19 oz.) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp. finely chopped cilantro
• 1 cup sour cream, for serving (optional)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
• Crackers, for serving (optional)