Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is a hearty and comforting dish filled with tender sweet potatoes, creamy black beans, and a rich blend of spices that make every bite warm…
Tip: save now, cook later.Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is a hearty and comforting dish filled with tender sweet potatoes, creamy black beans, and a rich blend of spices that make every bite warm and satisfying. This chili has just the right balance of sweetness from the potatoes and a mild kick from the spices, creating flavors that feel like a big, cozy hug on a cold day.
I love how easy this chili comes together, and it’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something filling but also healthy. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the black beans, and I usually throw in some extra veggies or a little smoky paprika to make it even better. It’s such a crowd-pleaser because it’s both meat-free and packed full of flavor.
My favorite way to serve this chili is with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side and a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices on top. It’s great for leftovers too because the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. Whenever I make a big pot, I know it’ll warm up a few lunches or dinners for my week—it’s like a warm bowl of comfort that’s always ready when I need it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They bring natural sweetness and a soft texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try butternut squash or pumpkin as good alternatives.
Black Beans: These add creaminess and protein. You can substitute with kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas if preferred.
Tomato Paste & Diced Tomatoes: Tomato paste deepens the flavor, while diced tomatoes add freshness. If you’re short on tomato paste, a bit of tomato sauce can work too.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander give the chili its warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust amounts based on your spice tolerance or replace smoked paprika with regular paprika.
How Do I Make Sure the Sweet Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Chili?
Sweet potatoes need to be tender but not mushy. Here’s what helps:
- Chop into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Simmer covered for 25-30 minutes to soften them well.
- After cooking covered, remove the lid and simmer a bit longer to thicken the chili without overcooking the potatoes.
This way, they keep their shape and add a lovely texture to the chili without turning into mush.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – perfect for even heat and slow simmering without burning.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – sharp and sturdy for chopping sweet potatoes and veggies safely.
- Cutting board – keep your workspace clean and organized while prepping ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked ground turkey or beef to make it a meaty chili that still packs in the veggies.
- Stir in some diced zucchini or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Top with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a melty finish.
- Add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of smoked chipotle powder for a smoky, tangy kick.
How to Make Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and toss everything into the pot. Then, about 30-40 minutes simmering time, including covered cooking to soften the sweet potatoes and a final uncovered simmer to thicken it. In total, plan for about 40-50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook everything together for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
3. Mix in Main Ingredients:
Next, add the chopped sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Thicken and Season:
Remove the lid and continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes without the lid to thicken the chili. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the chili into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro. You can also add toppings like tortilla chips, sour cream, or sliced avocado if you like. Enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Can I Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned Black Beans?
Yes! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them fully before adding to the chili. This ensures they’re tender and cook evenly with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier or Milder?
For more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño. To make it milder, reduce the chili powder and skip the cayenne altogether.
Can I Freeze Leftover Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Are Good Serving Suggestions?
This chili is delicious on its own or served with tortilla chips, sour cream, avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.