Name: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: Serves 6-8
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes with juices; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spices and sweet potatoes

Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using) to the pot and stir to coat the onions, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add the diced sweet potatoes and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
Build the chili base

Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and green chilies. Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans, maple syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Simmer until tender

Cover the pot and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender but not falling apart. If the chili becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
Finish and adjust seasonings

Uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the chili to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, spices, or a touch more sweetener if needed. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving.
Serve with garnishes

Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Offer optional garnishes such as diced avocado, additional fresh cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for a customizable meal.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutritional Information