Name: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you are looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that fills your kitchen with the aromas of smoky spices and warmth, this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe is an absolute must-try. It perfectly balances the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the hearty, earthy notes of black beans, all simmered together in a rich, tomato-forward broth. This dish is not only vegetarian but also vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for anyone wanting a satisfying dinner that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. It’s cozy, wholesome, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite weeknight staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. There are fresh green spinach leaves in one bowl, bright orange diced butternut squash in another, and whole black beans in a third bowl. Nearby, a bowl contains ground spices with colors like brown and red. White rice fills a medium bowl, and a smaller bowl holds chopped fresh green herbs. There is also a bowl with finely shredded white cheese, a bowl with peeled garlic cloves, and another with a whole dark green jalapeño pepper. The bowls are neatly spaced, highlighting the different colors and textures of the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, resulting in a dish that is vibrant and hearty without any fuss.

Olive oil: This is your base for sautéing the aromatics and adding a smooth richness to the chili.
Onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation that deepens as it cooks.
Garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Bring natural sweetness and a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the beans.
Black beans, drained: Packed with protein and heartiness, they make the chili filling and nourishing.
Diced tomatoes: Offer acidity and juiciness that brighten and balance the dish.
Vegetable broth: Creates the perfect savory liquid base without overpowering the other ingredients.
Chili powder: Adds bold smoky heat that defines the chili’s character.
Cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy aroma that complements the chili powder.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together and enhance every bite.

How to Make Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook them gently until they become fragrant and translucent. This step is key because it wakes up the flavors and forms the tasty base that will carry the rest of the chili.

Step 2: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans

Next, stir in the sweet potatoes and black beans. The sweet potatoes will add a delightful creaminess once cooked, while the black beans contribute a meaty, satisfying texture. Giving them a quick toss with the aromatics ensures everything soaks up the delicious flavors evenly.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes, Broth, and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This combination of tomatoes and broth creates a robust, flavorful liquid, and the spices add that classic southwestern kick that makes this chili irresistible.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the chili has thickened slightly. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully and softens the ingredients just right.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper to brighten everything up. This is your moment to make the chili perfect to your liking!

How to Serve Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe

The image shows a white pot filled with a thick, colorful stew. The stew has many visible layers of ingredients including small orange carrot cubes, yellow corn kernels, red bell pepper pieces, dark black beans, and green avocado chunks spread on the top. The stew looks rich and hearty with bits of tomato and other vegetables. A woman's hand is holding a white spoon resting inside the pot. The pot is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl of chili with fresh, vibrant garnishes. Creamy avocado slices add richness and a cooling contrast, while a squeeze of lime juice brings a lively brightness. Chopped cilantro or green onions are great for an herby touch, and a dollop of vegan sour cream or plain yogurt can add creamy depth.

Side Dishes

This chili shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crunchy cornbread, fluffy rice, or simple tortilla chips for scooping. A fresh green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp balance to all the warm, spiced goodness of the chili.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve the chili over baked sweet potato halves or inside crispy bell pepper bowls. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed tortillas or sweet potato skins, turning this chili into a fun, interactive meal that impresses family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chili on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency and keep it nice and saucy.

FAQs

Can I add other vegetables to the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in corn, bell peppers, or even zucchini to add extra texture and nutrition. They blend well with the existing flavors and make the chili even more colorful and hearty.

Is this chili spicy?

The chili powder provides a mild to moderate warmth, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing the chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer it milder, simply use less spice or omit the extra heat.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned black beans?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook the dried beans thoroughly before adding them to the chili. Using canned beans is more convenient and saves time, but either option works well.

How can I make this chili more protein-packed?

In addition to black beans, you could add lentils or quinoa for an extra protein boost. These ingredients integrate nicely and keep the dish vegan and filling.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe is a fantastic meal prep option because it stores and reheats well, making busy weeknight dinners both simple and nutritious.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe to make you feel cozy and satisfied after a long day. It’s simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and full of soul-warming flavor. I encourage you to dive in, customize it your way, and watch it become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious, nourishing chili!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need