Introduction
Sweet potato chili is a delicious and wholesome twist on traditional chili, offering a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. Packed with nutrients, fiber, and protein, this dish is not only comforting but also incredibly healthy. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or a meal prep staple, this sweet potato chili recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why Sweet Potato Chili?
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When combined with protein-packed beans, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base, they create a hearty and satisfying chili that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, or lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Sweet Potatoes and Bell Pepper:Â Add the diced sweet potatoes and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate Spices:Â Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes:Â Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in Broth:Â Add the vegetable broth and stir until everything is well mixed. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened.
- Season and Serve:Â Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Chili
- Dice Evenly:Â Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjust Spice Level:Â Customize the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Make It Ahead:Â This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Chili
Sweet potato chili is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins:Â Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
- High in Fiber:Â Both sweet potatoes and beans are high in fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Plant-Based Protein:Â Beans provide a great source of plant-based protein, making this chili a filling and nutritious meal.
More Sweet Potato Recipes to Try
If you love sweet potatoes as much as we do, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious recipes:
- Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet:Â A hearty and savory dish that combines sweet potatoes with ground beef for a satisfying meal. Perfect for dinner or meal prep!
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side dish that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
- Sweet Potato Fries:Â Crispy, baked sweet potato fries that are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Great as a snack or side dish.
More Sweet Potato Recipes to
If you love sweet potatoes as much as we do, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious recipes:
- Easy Cake Recipes: If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your chili, explore this collection of easy cake recipes for a delightful dessert.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side dish that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
- Sweet Potato Fries:Â Crispy, baked sweet potato fries that are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Great as a snack or side dish.