Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is a vibrant, comforting dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Imagine hearty black beans dancing in a rich, spiced broth while tender sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness and creamy texture. savory sweet potato dish The aroma wafting through the kitchen can turn any mundane afternoon into a fiesta of flavors.
This chili isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Picture yourself curled up on the couch, bowl in hand, savoring those robust flavors while your favorite show plays in the background. alternative chili recipe Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends, Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili promises to deliver smiles and satisfied bellies all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners hassle-free
- Its flavor profile balances sweetness and spice perfectly, leaving everyone wanting more
- With its vibrant colors and textures, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile; enjoy it as a main dish or paired with rice or bread
I once made this chili for a potluck, and let me tell you, it was gone faster than a magician’s rabbit! Everyone raved about it, and I ended up giving out the recipe like it was my secret family heirloom. nutritious stuffed squash recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm ones without blemishes for maximum sweetness and creaminess in your chili.
- Black Beans: Canned beans save time but rinse them well to reduce sodium content and improve flavor.
- Onion: Use yellow onion for its mild sweetness; it adds depth to your chili as it caramelizes.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they infuse the dish with aromatic goodness that makes your mouth water.
- Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your chili.
- Cumin: This spice adds an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes and black beans.
- Chili Powder: Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. It’s crucial for that signature chili kick!
- Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté your veggies until they’re soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
- Bell Pepper: Use red or yellow bell peppers for their sweetness and vibrant color that brighten up the dish.
- Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds brightness at the end; sprinkle some if you love that fresh herb flavor!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop your onion and bell pepper finely to ensure they cook evenly. Don’t forget to mince your garlic!
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until they soften—about 5 minutes—and smell amazing!
Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin and chili powder. Cook for another minute until fragrant, ensuring those spices release their aromas. For more inspiration, check out this egg roll stir fry recipe.
Add Sweet Potatoes & Broth: Toss in diced sweet potatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble gently until sweet potatoes are tender—around 15-20 minutes.
Add Black Beans: Once sweet potatoes are fork-tender, stir in rinsed black beans. Simmer for another 5 minutes so everything melds together beautifully.
Taste & Adjust Seasoning: Last but not least, taste your chili! Add salt or extra spices as needed to enhance those bold flavors before serving warm.
Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili! Enjoy it on its own or pair it with cornbread or avocado slices for an added touch of heaven! delicious corn soup recipe.
Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or seeking comfort food that’ll make your heart sing, this Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili truly delivers both nourishment and joy in every bite! For more inspiration, check out this honey balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe.
You Must Know
- Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is not only hearty; it’s a celebration of flavors
- The blend of spices gives warmth, while the vibrant colors make it inviting
- Perfect for cozy nights, this dish satisfies both hunger and taste buds effortlessly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic, then add sweet potatoes and beans for a balanced cook time. This sequence maximizes flavor infusion while ensuring all ingredients meld perfectly together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap black beans with kidney or pinto beans for variety. Spice lovers can add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a thicker chili, mash some sweet potatoes while cooking; it creates a creamy texture without extra calories
- Always taste before serving; you might want more seasoning!
- When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to maintain moisture
There’s nothing quite like the moment when my friends take their first bite of this chili. Their eyes light up, and I get showered with compliments that make me feel like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
Can I make Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili tastes even better when made one day ahead; flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for quick lunches during the week.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili?
Yes, freeze in portions for easy meals later; just defrost and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is a heartwarming dish that combines tender sweet potatoes and hearty black beans in a rich, spiced broth. This vibrant chili not only warms your body but also delights your taste buds, making it the perfect meal for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a satisfying option for both weeknight dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add diced sweet potatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir in rinsed black beans and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as desired before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For a creamier texture, mash some sweet potatoes while cooking. Feel free to swap black beans with kidney or pinto beans for variety or add jalapeños for extra heat!