Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili! It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the sweet potatoes adding a gentle sweetness and the black beans providing protein and texture. It’s a one-pot dish that is easy to make, full of fiber, and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option for the week, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese (or vegan cheese), sour cream (or vegan sour cream)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.

2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and bell pepper to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic, cooking for another 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: If you like more heat, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

• Meat Option: Although this recipe is vegan, you can add ground turkey or beef for a non-vegan version. Just sauté the meat before adding the vegetables.

• Beans: Swap black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or any of your favorite beans.

• Sweet Potato: If you prefer, you can substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: This chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming on the stove or in the microwave.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual servings until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! After sautéing the onions and garlic, add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the sweet potatoes are tender.

2. Can I make this recipe without the sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute the sweet potatoes with other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, or simply omit them for a lighter chili.

3. Is this chili gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

4. How can I make this chili spicier?

To add more heat, try adding a diced jalapeño pepper, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder.

5. Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a substitute. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.

6. What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings.

7. Can I add meat to this chili?

Yes! You can easily add ground turkey, chicken, or beef to the recipe. Sauté the meat first before adding the vegetables and other ingredients.

8. How long does this chili last in the fridge?

This chili will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container.

9. Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

10. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili is the perfect cozy meal for any time of year. It’s simple to make, incredibly healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a light dinner or a meal prep option for the week, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Plus, with the option to make it spicier or add your favorite toppings, it’s a versatile dish you can enjoy again and again.