Autumn Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty chili features roasted sweet potatoes combined with beans, tomatoes, and warm spices, resulting in a thick, comforting dish with a touch of sweetness. The sweet potatoes are caramelized through roasting, adding depth, while the chili simmers to develop layered flavors and hearty texture.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for roasting and sautéing
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz, with their juice
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cumin ground
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional for smoky depth
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the sweet potato chunks on a baking sheet, drizzle with half the olive oil, and toss to coat. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized around the edges, filling the kitchen with a sweet, roasted aroma.
- While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it releases its aroma without browning. This forms the flavorful base for your chili.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly. Let this simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then stir in cooked sweet potato chunks, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and simmer the chili for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and the ingredients to thicken slightly. During this time, you'll notice the mixture bubbling softly and a rich aroma filling the air.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as desired. If you want a touch of brightness, stir in a squeeze of lime or sprinkle with chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Serve the hearty chili in bowls, ensuring each portion has plenty of tender roasted sweet potatoes, beans, and a rich tomato base. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy the warming, layered flavors.
Notes
To enhance smoky flavor, lightly char some of the onion or add a dash of chipotle chili powder. The chili can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.