I am so excited to share one of my absolute favorite recipes with you – Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili! This hearty, warming dish is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends at a dinner party. There’s something magical about the combination of sweet potatoes and black beans; both are loaded with flavor and nutrients, and they complement each other beautifully in this chili.
I remember the first time I made this chili. It was a chilly fall evening, and I was craving something comforting. I threw together whatever I had in my pantry, and what came out was a deliciously robust chili that warmed my soul. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want something filling and healthy. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day, so you can easily make a big batch and enjoy leftovers!
What’s in Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili?
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the show, adding a natural sweetness and hearty texture. I recommend using medium-sized, firm ones for the best results.
Black Beans: No chili is complete without black beans! They are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and nutritious. Canned is convenient, but feel free to cook your own if you have the time.
Onion: The base flavor comes from a good onion. I prefer yellow or white onions for their versatility and sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: Who doesn’t love garlic? Adding minced garlic gives the chili an aromatic flavor that you can’t resist.
Bell Peppers: These colorful additions add crunch and a slight sweetness. I usually use a mix of red and green, but any color will work fine.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced canned tomatoes add a rich, tangy base and help meld all the flavors together in the chili.
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth enhances the taste without overpowering the other flavors. You can also use chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
Chili Powder, Cumin, and Paprika: These spices create the perfect chili blend. They add warmth, depth, and that signature chili flavor.
Cilantro and Lime: These are optional garnishes, but trust me, they brighten up the dish and take it to the next level!
Is Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili Good for You?
Absolutely! This chili is a powerhouse of nutrients.
Sweet Potatoes: They are high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and have antioxidant properties. Eating sweet potatoes can benefit your eye health and immune system.
Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, black beans help keep you full and satisfied. They’re also known for supporting heart health and digestion.
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sodium intake, stick to low-sodium canned products for the best health benefits.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
– 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Serves: 4-6
How to Make Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili?
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peppers are tender.
3. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like it spicier, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce!
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Chili Tips and Twists!
– For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or some smoked paprika.
– You can easily make this chili vegan by ensuring your vegetable broth is plant-based.
– Want more protein? Toss in some quinoa or ground turkey if you’re not strictly vegetarian.
– This chili freezes beautifully, so feel free to double the recipe and have some on hand for busy nights!
I hope you give this Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili a try! It’s one of those comforting dishes that just hugs you from the inside out. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so make sure to share your version and any tweaks you made. Happy cooking, my friends!