Full of flavor and so simple to make, this Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili is a wonderfully satisfying vegetarian meal! Best served with avocado chunks, cilantro and cornbread.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, adds warmth)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, if you like it spicy)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Optional toppings: Avocado, vegan sour cream, tortilla chips, or shredded vegan cheese
How to make
Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Cook the sweet potatoes: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly soften the sweet potatoes.
Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, vegetable broth, and stir. Add in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine everything well.
Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Add beans: Stir in the black beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Finish and garnish: Once the chili is done, remove from heat and stir in the lime juice for a burst of freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Add any optional toppings like avocado, vegan sour cream, tortilla chips, or vegan cheese for extra richness!
