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Hearty Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili

black bean and sweet potato chili - featured image

A cozy, soul-soothing chili combining black beans and sweet potatoes with smoky spices, perfect for a quick and nourishing comfort meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red or orange bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp toasted cumin powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, lime juice, shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients (10 minutes): Dice sweet potatoes, onion, and bell pepper. Mince garlic cloves. Rinse and drain black beans.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics (5-7 minutes): Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper; cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices (3 minutes): Stir in diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Coat the veggies in the spices.
  4. Add Liquids and Beans (5 minutes): Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in black beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Partially cover with a lid.
  5. Simmer Until Tender (20-25 minutes): Let chili simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are fork-tender and chili thickens. Add broth or water if too thick.
  6. Mash Beans Partially (optional): Use an immersion blender or mash some beans with a fork to thicken chili while keeping some whole beans.
  7. Season to Taste (2 minutes): Add salt and pepper, adjust spices if desired, and add a squeeze of lime juice.
  8. Serve Warm: Ladle into bowls and garnish with preferred toppings like cilantro, avocado, or cheese.

Notes

Do not rush sautéing onions and peppers to develop a deep flavor base. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium. Adjust salt and spices to taste. For creamier texture, mash some beans. Slow cooker option: brown aromatics first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: black bean chili, sweet potato chili, vegetarian chili, vegan chili, gluten-free chili, comfort food, easy chili recipe