Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of Smoky Black Bean & Sweet Potato Chili. This recipe is a hearty, plant-based delight that's both comforting and packed with flavor, perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch.
Olive oil is the base for sautéing, lending a subtle richness. Next, we have a large onion and garlic for depth and aroma; they form the aromatic foundation. Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and a soft, comforting texture. The stars of the show, black beans, add heartiness and are a great protein source. Diced tomatoes provide acidity to balance the sweetness, while vegetable broth keeps everything moist and melds the flavors together. The spice trifecta — chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin — gives the chili its smoky, warm character. Finally, there's a squeeze of lime juice for brightness and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish.
This chili is lovely with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for an extra hearty meal. Consider topping it with avocado slices, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you’re not keeping it vegan.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook until they soften and the kitchen starts to smell heavenly — about five minutes should do it.
Next, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir them around so they get a little coated in the onion-garlic mixture, and let them cook for another five minutes. This will start to soften them up.
Now, it’s time to add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir everything together well, and then let the pot come to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the sweet potatoes to be tender — you should be able to pierce them easily with a fork.
After simmering, season your chili with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the lime juice, which will brighten everything up. Finally, stir in the fresh cilantro just before serving to keep its flavor vibrant.
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