Spice up your chili routine with Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili, a hearty, plant‑forward alternative to traditional meat chilis. By combining sweet potato cubes, protein‑rich black beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, this dish boasts robust flavors and a pleasing balance of sweetness and heat. Perfect for cold nights or when you need a nutritious, budget‑friendly meal, the chili is easily adaptable to various dietary preferences.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes (peeled, cubed) | 2–3 (about 1.5 lbs) | Cut into uniform, bite‑sized pieces |
| Black beans (canned or cooked) | 2 cans (15 oz each) | Rinsed and drained |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large | Yellow or white |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Fresh flavor |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon | Adjust based on spice level |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons | Earthy undertone |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14–15 oz) | Or fresh tomatoes in season |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups | Add more if you like a thinner chili |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Optional: Bell peppers, corn kernels | 1 cup each | Additional veggies for texture |
| Optional: Toppings (avocado, lime juice, cilantro) | As desired | Personalize your bowl |
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat the Pot:
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, warm 1–2 tablespoons oil over medium heat.
- Onion and Garlic:
- Add chopped onion; cook until translucent (~5 minutes). Add garlic for 1 more minute, stirring to prevent burning.
Step 3: Build Flavors with Spices
- Add Chili Powder and Cumin:
- Stir them in, allowing spices to toast for ~1 minute. This step intensifies their aroma.
- Optional Extra Veggies:
- If adding bell peppers or corn, toss them in now. Sauté for 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Beans
- Add Sweet Potatoes:
- Stir cubed sweet potatoes into the aromatic base. Season with salt, pepper, or other spices like paprika or oregano if desired.
- Black Beans:
- Mix in the drained black beans, distributing them evenly.
Step 5: Liquids and Simmer
- Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth.
- Ensure everything is submerged; add a bit more broth or water if necessary.
- Simmer:
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 20–25 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork‑tender.
- Taste and Adjust:
-
- Add salt, pepper, or extra chili powder if needed. For a touch of acidity, squeeze in lime juice.
Step 6: Thicken and Serve
- Mash for Texture (Optional):
- Gently mash some sweet potatoes or beans with a spoon. This thickens the chili without adding extra ingredients.
- Final Consistency:
- If it’s too thick, stir in more broth. If it’s too thin, remove the lid and simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
- Plating:
-
- Ladle into bowls. Top with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese (if not vegan), or a dollop of sour cream.
Step 7: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
Step 7: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips- Overly Sweet:
- Balance with extra spice, lime juice, or a dash of vinegar to cut sweetness.
- Too Spicy:
- Add more tomato, broth, or a small spoonful of sugar to mellow the heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly:
- This chili is ideal for batch cooking; flavors deepen if stored overnight in the fridge.
Step 8: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use dried beans?
A1: Yes—pre‑soak and cook them before adding. Plan for extra time.
Q2: Is this freezable?
A2: Absolutely. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Q3: How can I add more protein?
A3: Stir in cooked lentils, extra beans, or top with cheese/yogurt if not vegan.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili delivers a harmonious blend of natural sweetness, savory beans, and a spicy kick, making it a hearty vegetarian (or vegan) meal. By sautéing aromatics, using warming spices, and simmering sweet potatoes to tender perfection, you’ll craft a comforting chili that’s both wholesome and crowd‑pleasing. Garnish as you like, serve it hot, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of this budget‑friendly dish.
