Smoky Sweet Potato Chili
Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey
This Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a delightful smoky flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.
This Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is not just another chili recipe; it brings a unique twist with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of smokiness from the chipotle peppers. Perfect for chilly evenings, this chili is both comforting and nourishing.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, smoky flavor that warms you from the inside out
- Nutritious and filling, packed with vitamins and fiber
- Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
The Perfect Comfort Food
Chili is often considered the ultimate comfort food, and this Smoky Sweet Potato Chili takes that concept to a whole new level. The combination of sweet potatoes and smoky spices creates a rich and warm flavor profile that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Not only does this chili deliver on flavor, but it also provides a hearty and nutritious meal. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, while black beans contribute protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and healthful. Whether you're looking to warm up after a long day or meal prep for the week ahead, this chili has got you covered.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of this Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it spicier with additional chipotle peppers or milder with a touch of honey for sweetness, the choice is yours. Add in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, to make it even heartier.
Toppings are another area where you can get creative. From fresh cilantro and creamy avocado slices to a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, the options are endless. Not only do these toppings enhance the dish's flavors, but they also add texture and visual appeal, making each bowl unique.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a meal that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week, this Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days and can even be frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal without any fuss.
To make the most of your meal prep, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you’ll have plenty of leftovers to last you throughout the week. Packed with nutrients and flavors that only get better over time, this chili is not just a meal; it's a delicious solution for busy days.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
Feel free to add any of your favorite chili toppings!
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Chili
Add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle peppers. Stir to combine.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Enjoy this hearty chili on its own or with a side of crusty bread!
Tips for the Best Chili
To ensure your Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is packed with flavor, don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the chili. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices to make the dish your own.
If you want to increase the smokiness, consider adding a splash of liquid smoke or additional smoked paprika. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors. Balance is key in achieving the rich, smoky essence that makes this chili so delightful.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Smoky Sweet Potato Chili, consider pairing it with warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. These sides complement the chili beautifully, providing a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.
For a complete meal, serve the chili alongside a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing side that balances the richness of the chili, making for a wholesome dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
You can substitute regular potatoes or butternut squash if you prefer.
→ Is this chili spicy?
It has a mild heat from the chipotle peppers, but you can adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Smoky Sweet Potato Chili
This Smoky Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a delightful smoky flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Seasonal Flavor Journey
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chili
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle peppers. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 12g