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Black bean chili with sweet potatoes in a bowl garnished with cilantro

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

This colorful and hearty chili is a harmonious blend of sweet potatoes and black beans, featuring a medley of spices that create an aromatic experience. It's perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin) Adds a luscious backdrop to the sautéed vegetables.
  • 1.5 pounds sweet potatoes (diced into ½ inch cubes) Provides natural sweetness and creaminess.
  • 1 each yellow onion (diced) Contributes a sweet and aromatic base.
  • 1 each red bell pepper (diced) Offers a crunchy texture and beautiful color.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances the chili with its robust and aromatic flavor.
  • 2 14.5 ounce cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained) Brings depth with a smoky quality.
  • 2 14.5 ounce cans black beans (drained and rinsed) Packed with protein and a rich, earthy flavor.
  • 1 4 ounce can diced green chiles Introduces a mild heat and vibrant taste.
  • 2.5 cups vegetable broth Acts as a comforting and flavorful base.
  • 2 Tablespoons chili powder A crucial ingredient for warmth that lingers.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin Adds a slightly nutty, earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Infuses a gentle smokiness that intensifies the chili.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Imparts a touch of herbaceous flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Introduces warmth and a hint of spice.
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels Provides sweetness and a pop of color.
  • 0.25 cup chopped cilantro Adds freshness to the finished dish.
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice Brightens and balances the flavors.
Optional Toppings
  • to taste Tortilla Strips Adds crunch.
  • to taste Sour Cream Offers creaminess.
  • to taste Green Onions Enhances flavor.
  • to taste Jalapeno Adds spice.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat 2 Tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 1 ½ pound diced sweet potatoes, 1 diced yellow onion, and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 8 minutes, stirring frequently until they begin to soften.
  3. Toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, releasing its fragrant aroma.
Cooking
  1. Next, add 2 cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with their liquid, 2 cans of black beans, 1 can of diced green chiles, and 2 ½ cups of vegetable broth.
  2. Stir in the spices: 2 Tablespoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to combine everything.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  4. After 30 minutes, add 1 cup of frozen corn kernels, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, and 2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
  1. Ladle the chili into bowls, top with your desired toppings like tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or spicy jalapeños. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

To elevate your Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the spices. Experiment with different beans or add quinoa for more texture and protein. Prep the ingredients in advance to save time on busy weeknights.