This hearty Sweet Potato Chili is packed with good-for-you ingredients like sweet potatoes, beans, and colorful veggies. It’s warming and perfect for chilly days!
I love how the sweetness of the potatoes mixes with the spices. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to make—just throw it all together and simmer! 🍠❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star! Their natural sweetness adds depth. If you can’t find them, try butternut squash or even pumpkin for a similar flavor.
Beans: Black beans give a nice texture and protein. You can swap them out for kidney beans, pinto beans, or any beans you like. Canned beans save time; just rinse them well!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are must-haves for flavor. If you want a different taste, try taco seasoning. Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works fine, but you’ll miss that smokiness!
Vegetable Broth: Using broth adds rich flavor, but you can easily substitute with water if needed. Just maybe add a splash of soy sauce or a bit more seasoning.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender sweet potatoes is cooking them long enough to soften without losing their shape. When you add them to the pot, be sure to coat them in the spices well for the best flavor. Here’s how:
- After adding the sweet potatoes and bell pepper, give them a good stir to coat them in oil and spices.
- Cover the pot while simmering; this helps steam the sweet potatoes for tenderness.
- Check for tenderness after 25 minutes; if they’re not soft, let them simmer a bit longer. You want them tender but not mushy!
Follow these steps for a delicious and hearty Sweet Potato Chili every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Sweet Potato Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Potato Chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something hearty and healthy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This adds a great flavor base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Toast the Spices:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You want it to be fragrant but not browned. Then, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the spices to toast for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
3. Mix in the Vegetables:
Now, add the cubed sweet potato and diced red bell pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the vegetables are coated in the fragrant spice mix. This is where the magic starts!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour in the black beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
5. Cook the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
After the sweet potatoes are soft, season the chili with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro for a nice fresh flavor.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious chili! Ladle it into bowls and top with diced avocado, red onion, green onions, and any additional cilantro you like for a bright finish.
Enjoy your comforting and nutritious Sweet Potato Chili! Perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are delicious, you can substitute them with kidney beans, pinto beans, or any beans you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the chili.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like a kick, you can add more cayenne pepper or include chopped jalapeños when sautéing the onions. For an even spicier flavor, consider adding some hot sauce just before serving!
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What Should I Serve with This Chili?
This chili is great on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or with tortilla chips for some extra crunch. Adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top also adds a nice creaminess!
