If you want a warm, tasty, and healthy meal, try sweet potato chili. It is easy to make and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or cold days. Sweet potatoes give the chili a nice sweetness. Beans and spices add richness and heat.
Why Sweet Potato Chili?
- Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and texture.
- Beans make the chili filling and healthy.
- Spices bring warmth and flavor without too much heat.
- This recipe is good for meat eaters and vegetarians.
- It cooks in one pot, so cleaning is easy.
Ingredients You Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes | 2 medium, peeled and cubed | Use firm and fresh sweet potatoes |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed | Or use kidney beans if you prefer |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Yellow or white onion works well |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Add more if you like strong garlic taste |
| Green bell pepper | 1 medium, chopped | Gives a fresh and mild flavor |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) | Choose plain or seasoned tomato sauce |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Or use chicken broth if you prefer |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons | Adjust to your taste |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds a smoky flavor |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon | Gives a warm, earthy taste |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Or to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground is best |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For cooking vegetables |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for 30 seconds.
- Add sweet potatoes and stir to coat with spices.
- Pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add black beans and stir gently.
- Cook for another 10 minutes with the lid off to thicken chili.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Sweet Potato Chili
- Use fresh spices for better taste.
- Peel sweet potatoes for a smoother texture.
- Simmer slowly to blend all flavors well.
- Add a little brown sugar if you want more sweetness.
- Try adding corn or diced tomatoes for extra veggies.
- Top with avocado, sour cream, or cheese when serving.
Why This Recipe Works Well
This chili is a mix of sweet and spicy flavors. Sweet potatoes bring natural sugar. The spices add warmth. Beans add protein and fiber. The tomato sauce makes it juicy and rich. This chili is thick and filling. It can be a main dish or a side. It is good for dinner or lunch.
Nutrition Benefits
Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C. They help your eyes and skin stay healthy. Beans provide protein and fiber for your body. This chili has no added fat except olive oil. It is a healthy meal for the whole family. It helps keep your energy up. You can eat it with bread or rice to feel full.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm bread or corn tortillas.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if you like.
- Fresh avocado slices add creaminess.
- Chop fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish.
- Serve with a side salad for a full meal.
How to Store Leftover Chili
Let the chili cool down. Put it in a clean container with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in small portions. To reheat, warm it on the stove or microwave. Stir well and add water if it is too thick.
Variations to Try
- Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a meat version.
- Use sweet potato and black bean mix only for vegetarian chili.
- Add chopped carrots or zucchini for more vegetables.
- Try different beans like kidney or pinto beans.
- Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for smoky flavor.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.