Sweet Potato Chili Recipe: Cozy Comfort Food for Every Season

Sweet potato chili is the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with vibrant flavors that make every spoonful a satisfying experience. Whether you’re craving a filling meal after a long day or preparing a cozy dinner for friends and family, this sweet potato chili recipe will hit the spot. Made with wholesome ingredients like tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich beans, and spices that bring it all together, this dish is not only comforting but also nutritious. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Chili

• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the sweet potatoes and beans.
• Hearty: With beans, veggies, and sweet potatoes, this chili is a complete meal in itself.
• Customizable: You can make it as mild or spicy as you like by adjusting the seasonings.
• Plant-based: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless meal.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!

Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained (optional)
• 1 (4 oz) can green chilies (optional for added spice)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 cups vegetable broth (or more for desired consistency)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional for a hint of sweetness)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet potatoes and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Spices and Tomatoes:
   Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
4. Combine Everything:
   Add the sautéed sweet potatoes back into the pot, along with the black beans, kidney beans, corn (if using), and green chilies (if using). Pour in the vegetable broth to cover the ingredients. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
5. Simmer and Cook:
   Let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. You can add more broth if you prefer a thinner chili.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. If you like a touch of sweetness, stir in the maple syrup or honey. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes:

• Adjust Spice Level: Add more chili powder or a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
• For a Smokier Flavor: Try adding a bit of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
• Protein Boost: If you’re craving extra protein, consider adding quinoa or tempeh.
• Substitute Ingredients: You can swap black beans with pinto beans or use any other type of bean you prefer.

Time and Serving:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Serving Size: 4-6 servings

How to Store Sweet Potato Chili

This chili makes a fantastic meal prep option. Here’s how you can store it:

• In the Fridge: Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• In the Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chili in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Sweet Potato Chili Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Don’t Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: For the best texture, cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender but not mushy.
• Let It Rest: Chili always tastes better the next day! Letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to deepen and intensify.
• Top with Toppings: Customize your chili with toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Chili

Serve this chili with your favorite sides or toppings! Here are a few suggestions:

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is the perfect companion.
• Rice: Serve the chili over brown rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese.
• Salad: Pair with a simple mixed green salad for a balanced meal.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: To cook the chili.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the vegetables and sweet potatoes.
• Can Opener: To open the canned beans and tomatoes.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring and ensuring the chili doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Chili

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. They are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, which support immunity, skin health, and digestion. Beans add a protein boost and fiber, making this chili both filling and satisfying without being overly heavy. Plus, the combination of spices like cumin and chili powder offers anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Chili is the kind of recipe you can rely on for a cozy, nutritious meal. Whether you make it for a family dinner, a meal prep, or a party dish, it never fails to impress with its hearty texture and bold flavors. Plus, it’s easy to adjust to your taste and dietary preferences—whether you want to keep it vegetarian or add some extra protein. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!