This Sweet Potato Chili is a warm and cozy dish packed with flavor! It combines tender sweet potatoes, beans, and spices that make each bite hearty and satisfying.
I love how easy this chili is to make. Just toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. Perfect for those chilly days when you need a big bowl of comfort! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are crucial for the dish’s texture and sweetness. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can work, but they’ll change the flavor a bit. You could also use butternut squash as a tasty alternative!
Beans: Black beans complement the chili nicely. If you’re looking for a different taste, try kidney beans or pinto beans. Canned beans save time; just remember to rinse them!
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add a nice acidity. If you prefer fresh, about 2 cups diced tomatoes work well. However, if you’re looking for a smoother texture, use crushed tomatoes instead.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for that classic chili flavor. Don’t have either? Try a taco seasoning blend instead! Adjust it to your taste for a customized kick.
Vegetable Broth: This adds depth to the dish. Chicken broth can be used if not vegetarian, or water in a pinch, but it won’t add as much flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
To ensure sweet potatoes cook evenly and are tender, here are some tips:
- Cube the sweet potatoes into small, even pieces. About 1-inch cubes work best.
- Add them to the pot early in the cooking process to give them enough time to soften.
- Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. They should be fork-tender without falling apart.
- If they are not soft yet, cover and simmer for a few more minutes while checking frequently.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in your chili!
Sweet Potato Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 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 more for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Potato Chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying this fantastic dish in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until the onion turns soft and translucent. This step adds a wonderful base flavor to your chili!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook it for about 1 minute, stirring often, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Toast the Spices:
Then, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook these spices for about 30 seconds to bring out their natural flavors. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the cubed sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir everything together to mix well.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened up nicely.
6. Season and Finish:
Once the sweet potatoes are soft, season your chili with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving—it adds a fresh touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Sweet Potato Chili hot, topped with sliced avocado, extra cilantro, and a lime wedge on the side for squeezing over your bowl. Enjoy every delicious bite!
There you go! You’ve made a hearty and flavorful Sweet Potato Chili. Perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying on a cozy night in!
Can I Use Other Types of Beans in This Chili?
Absolutely! While black beans work great, you can substitute them with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just remember to drain and rinse any canned beans before adding them to the pot!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions. You can also top your chili with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, Sweet Potato Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Chili?
In addition to avocado and cilantro, you can add sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, shredded cheese for extra flavor, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Lime wedges are also perfect for squeezing over the top!
