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Hearty Chili with Sweet Potato and Black Beans

hearty chili with sweet potato and black beans - featured image

A comforting and wholesome chili featuring tender sweet potatoes and hearty black beans, layered with smoky spices and natural sweetness. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups cooked black beans or 1 (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream or dairy-free alternatives

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. While sweet potatoes roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for another 3 minutes until softened and aromatic.
  4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
  6. Add drained black beans. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Fold roasted sweet potatoes into the chili and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add cayenne or hot sauce if desired for extra heat.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, avocado, cheese, or sour cream. Enjoy with warm cornbread or steamed rice.

Notes

Roasting the sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds texture. Toasting spices before adding liquids intensifies flavor. Blend about a third of the beans with some broth for a creamy texture without dairy. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering longer. Fresh garlic and quality spices improve taste. Can be made in a slow cooker after roasting and sautéing steps.

Nutrition

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