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Are you ready to savor a warm bowl of Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili? This dish packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. In this post, I’ll walk you through simple steps and tasty tips. You’ll learn how to prepare each ingredient, achieve the best taste, and even explore creative variations. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this chili will be your new favorite recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: This chili is packed with nutritious sweet potatoes and black beans, making it a wholesome meal that’s both filling and good for you.
- Flavorful Spices: The combination of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish and warms you up.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
- Customizable Toppings: Top your chili with fresh cilantro, creamy avocado, or a squeeze of lime for a personalized touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Avocado slices for serving (optional)
Optional Ingredients for Serving
You can elevate your chili with a few simple touches. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Avocado slices bring a creamy texture that balances the spices. Lime wedges lend a zesty kick, brightening your dish. These extras make your chili feel special and inviting.
Nutritional Highlights of Key Ingredients
– Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber. They support eye health and boost immunity.
– Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, black beans help keep you full. They also provide iron and magnesium, which are essential for your body.
– Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies add crunch and vitamins A and C. They contribute antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
– Garlic and Onion: Both add flavor and contain compounds that may boost heart health. They also enhance the overall taste of your chili.
– Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices not only add warmth but also offer various health benefits. Cumin may aid digestion, while chili powder can boost metabolism.
Each ingredient plays a role in making this chili not just tasty but also packed with nutrients. Enjoying it is a treat for both your taste buds and your body.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Vegetables
Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes. You want them in small, even cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Next, chop the onion and mince the garlic. Make sure to have your red and green bell peppers diced as well. I find it best to prep everything first. This makes cooking smooth and easy.
Cooking Process Overview
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, toss in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir as you go.
Next, add the sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to toast the spices for 2 minutes. This step brings out their flavor. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Bring this mix to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the black beans. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sweet potatoes turn tender.
Tips for Achieving the Best Flavor
To boost the taste, always use fresh spices. Fresh spices have more punch. Adjust the seasoning at the end for a perfect finish. If the chili seems too thick, add more vegetable broth or water. This keeps it nice and smooth. Finally, serve it hot, topped with fresh cilantro and avocado. These add color and creaminess. Enjoy every spoonful!
Tips & Tricks
How to Modify Spice Levels
To change the spice in your chili, think about your taste. Start with one teaspoon of chili powder. If you want more heat, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños. You can also use hot sauce for an extra kick. For a milder flavor, cut back on the chili powder. Adding a bit of sugar can also help balance the heat.
Enhancing Texture and Flavor
Texture plays a big role in chili. To make your chili thicker, mash some sweet potatoes while cooking. This gives it a creamy texture. You can also add corn or diced zucchini for extra crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro at the end add a burst of flavor. Try adding lime juice to brighten the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Be careful not to overcook the sweet potatoes. They should be soft but not mushy. Also, avoid skipping the seasoning. Salt and pepper help bring out the flavors. Don’t rush the simmering time. Letting the chili cook longer helps the flavors blend. Finally, always taste before serving. Adjust spices to make it just right.
Pro Tips
- Perfect Sweet Potatoes: To ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly, try to cut them into uniform pieces. This helps them to tenderize at the same rate during cooking.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the level of heat in your chili by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicier. Just keep in mind to start with a small amount and taste as you go.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste when you add the diced tomatoes. This will enhance the overall richness of the chili.
- Batch Cooking: This chili is perfect for meal prep! Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick meals later. Just reheat and enjoy!

Variations
Adding Other Vegetables
You can easily boost the nutrition of your chili. Try adding corn for a sweet crunch. Zucchini gives a nice texture and absorbs flavors well. Carrots add sweetness and color. You can also include chopped kale or spinach for some leafy goodness. If you want a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Protein Packed Alternatives
While black beans are great, you can switch them up. Chickpeas are a good choice and add a nutty taste. Lentils cook fast and thicken the chili. For a heartier dish, try adding diced tofu or tempeh. These options keep your chili filling while staying plant-based.
Flavor Profiles with Different Spices
Spices can change the whole vibe of your chili. For a smokier flavor, use chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika. A touch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth. If you like it spicy, cayenne pepper gives a nice heat. You can also blend in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresh twist. Experimenting with spices makes each pot unique!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature first. This helps avoid condensation, which can make the chili watery. You can keep the chili in the fridge for up to five days. Label your container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some chili for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chili cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. You can freeze the chili for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Guidelines
Reheating the chili is simple. You can use a pot on the stove or the microwave. If using the stove, heat it on medium-low. Stir often to prevent burning. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of vegetable broth if it seems too thick. Enjoy your warm and flavorful chili!
FAQs
How long can Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili last in the fridge?
You can store Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This chili gets even better as it sits. The flavors blend, and it becomes more delicious.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours. This method makes it easy to prepare while you do other things.
What to serve with Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili?
I love serving this chili with avocado slices and fresh cilantro. You can also add lime wedges for a zesty touch. Other great sides include corn bread or tortilla chips. They add a nice crunch and balance the chili’s warmth.
This blog post covered the ingredients and steps to make Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili. You learned about key ingredients and their nutritional value. We discussed tips for cooking and enhancing flavor. I shared ways to modify spice levels and avoid common mistakes. Variations with other vegetables and proteins add new twists. Finally, we explored storage techniques to keep your chili fresh. By following these tips, you can enjoy a tasty, healthy dish every time. Try it out toda
Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili made with sweet potatoes and black beans, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- optional fresh cilantro for garnish
- optional avocado slices for serving
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until translucent.
Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with fresh cilantro and avocado slices for added creaminess and flavor. Lime wedges can be offered on the side for a zesty kick!
Keyword black bean, chili, sweet potato, vegetarian
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