Beans, Rice and Lentil Chili

1 lb. lean ground beef
1/2 large onion, chopped
1-19 oz. can diced tomatoes
1-7.5 oz can tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 cup uncooked whole grain brown rice
1 jar salsa
1-19 oz. can mixed beans (red kidney & Romano beans, chickpeas and black-eyed peas)
1 cup cooked lentils
1-2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp fresh ground pepper
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

Sort the lentils to remove dirt and stones, rinse and place in a saucepan. Cover with water. Simmer on medium heat for 30-40 minutes. Lentils will double to triple in volume. Drain.

Brown ground beef. Add onion and cooke and stir until onion is clear and beef is cooked. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, water and rice. Cover and cook for 15 minutes. Add salsa and mixed beans. Cook for 10 minutes. Add cooked lentils and spices. Heat and serve.