This Sweet Potato Chili is a warm and cozy dish that combines sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and spices. It’s packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients!
It’s perfect for chilly days and makes your kitchen smell amazing. I love topping mine with a dollop of yogurt and some green onions. Yummy! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the chili, adding sweetness and creaminess. If you have butternut squash or regular potatoes, they can work as substitutes. However, sweet potatoes bring a unique flavor that’s hard to replace!
Black Beans: They’re packed with protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, feel free to use kidney beans or pinto beans instead. Canned beans are super handy, but you can also cook dried beans ahead of time.
Diced Tomatoes: These add moisture and flavor. If you want to switch things up, fire-roasted tomatoes give a nice smoky taste. You can also use fresh tomatoes if you have them; just peel and chop them well.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for flavor. You can experiment with taco seasoning as a convenient alternative, which combines spices for a quick fix. Adjust the cayenne pepper depending on how spicy you like it!
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender sweet potatoes in chili is to cut them into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly and quickly. Once you add them to the pot, let them simmer covered initially for about 25-30 minutes. Keep the heat low to avoid burning!
- Stir occasionally to keep everything mixed well.
- If you find the chili too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Remember, the sweet potatoes will soften more as the chili simmers, so don’t worry if they look a bit firm initially!
Delicious Sweet Potato Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chili Base:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Sweet Potato Chili will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes before you can dive into this amazing dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add your diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, which will take about 5 minutes. This step is essential for building a delicious flavor base!
2. Add the Flavorful Spices:
Next, add the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1 minute. This will help release the lovely flavors of the spices!
3. Combine the Veggies and Beans:
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Toss in the cubed sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes (including all the yummy juices), and the vegetable broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything well so all those flavors mingle.
4. Cook It Down:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are nice and tender. This is the perfect time to enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Thicken the Chili:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the lid and let the chili simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to help thicken it up to your desired consistency. It’ll be hearty and comforting!
6. Final Touches:
Now it’s time to do a taste check! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you’re feeling zesty, squeeze some lime juice in for that extra freshness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm chili in bowls, and top each serving with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You can also add extra lime juice if you like. Dig in and savor every bite of this hearty Sweet Potato Chili!
Enjoy your delicious creation! 🌶️🥘
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While black beans are great for this chili, you can easily swap them out for kidney beans or pinto beans. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed if you’re using canned beans!
How Spicy is This Chili?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your taste. The cayenne pepper is optional, so if you prefer a milder chili, you can omit it or reduce the amount. Feel free to add more chili powder for flavor without the heat!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Allow the chili to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve This Chili With?
This sweet potato chili is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal!