Heat a large pot over medium heat.
Add oil, onion, and red pepper. Sauté until onions are translucent, or for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add garlic and jalapeno to the pot with onion and red pepper.
Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water.
Stir to combine. Bring to a low boil over medium high heat.
Once a boil is reached, add lentils. Stir reduce heat to medium-low to bring to a simmer.
Cook for 15 minutes, or until lentils are mostly tender. Add more water if mixture runs out or lentils are no longer covered.
Add kidney beans, black beans, corn , salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat for 3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and cover for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. (Optional: add a tsp or two of sugar to draw out other flavors)
Serve as is or with a side of rice or tortilla chips.