Save A hearty, vibrant vegetarian chili featuring sweet potatoes, black beans, and a blend of warming spices—perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
I first made this chili on a chilly autumn evening and was amazed at how satisfying and full of flavor it turned out. The blend of spices and the sweetness of the potatoes create an irresistible comfort dish.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced (about 500 g)
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Jalapeño (optional): 1, seeded and minced
- Black beans: 2 cans (400 g each), drained and rinsed
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g)
- Vegetable broth: 500 ml
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1½ tsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Salt: ¾ tsp, or to taste
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges (optional): For garnish
- Sliced avocado (optional): For garnish
- Sour cream or vegan alternative (optional): For garnish
Instructions
- Sauté base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add aromatics:
- Stir in garlic, jalapeño, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add sweet potatoes:
- Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Spice it up:
- Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat vegetables.
- Add mains:
- Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
- Finish & serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and sour cream if desired.
Save My family loves this chili for its bold flavor and vibrant colors. It has become a request at every game night and is always a hit with both adults and kids.
Required Tools
Large heavy-bottomed pot, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring spoons, and cups give you everything needed for easy preparation.
Allergen Information
Free from nuts, dairy, eggs, and gluten so it suits many dietary restrictions. Always verify canned goods for cross-contamination if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 340 calories, 7 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 11 g protein, making it a wholesome meal for any occasion.
Save This chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it warm and enjoy every spoonful.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, increasing jalapeño or adding cayenne pepper can enhance the heat to your preference.
- → What beans work best in this dish?
Black beans are ideal, but kidney or pinto beans can be substituted without compromising flavor.
- → How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
They should be tender enough to pierce easily with a fork after simmering for 25-30 minutes.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making it excellent for meal prep.
- → What garnish options complement the dish?
Cilantro, lime wedges, sliced avocado, and sour cream or vegan alternatives add freshness and creaminess.