Hearty Lentil Chili

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or 1½ tablespoons chili powder blend)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 2 cans beans (15 oz each, or 3 cups of cooked beans, such as black and kidney beans)
• 2 cans crushed tomatoes (15 oz each)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or more as needed)
• 1 teaspoon salt (and black pepper to taste)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 1 handful cilantro (for serving)
• Lime juice, yogurt, and rice (for serving)