Cozy Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)
• 2 (15‑oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed

Beans & Veggies

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Aromatics

• 1 (14‑oz) can diced tomatoes with their juices
• 2 cups vegetable broth (low‑sodium)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar

Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle in adobo, minced (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cooking the Chili

1. Sauté the aromatics. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking 5‑6 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and chipotle; cook another 30 seconds, being careful not to let the garlic burn. This step builds the flavor foundation.
2. Toast the spices. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika over the vegetables. Stir continuously for 1‑2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their essential oils. Toasted spices deepen the chili’s aroma and prevent a raw, powdery taste.
3. Combine liquids and beans. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, maple syrup, and black beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. The broth will start to thicken as the flavors meld.
4. Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes. Gently fold the roasted sweet potato cubes into the simmering pot. Let the chili continue to simmer uncovered for 15‑20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sweet potatoes to absorb the spices while keeping their shape.
5. Finish with acidity. Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. The acidity brightens the dish and balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and maple syrup.