Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful? This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Vegan Chili is the answer.
Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or craving a bowl of cozy goodness on a cold day, this chili delivers. It’s easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and loaded with wholesome ingredients.
Plus, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy — a combination that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with sweet potatoes, black beans, and vegetables, this chili is a powerhouse of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
- Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices, including smoked paprika and chili powder, creates a bold and smoky flavor profile.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level, add your favorite veggies, or serve with your choice of toppings to make it your own.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers or batch cooking.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced avocado
- Vegan sour cream or cashew cream
- Diced red onion
- Tortilla chips or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to soften. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Spices
Toss in the diced sweet potatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 3: Incorporate the Base Ingredients
Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable broth.
Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let the chili cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, stir in the thawed corn and maple syrup, if using. Let the chili simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the corn through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Squeeze in the lime juice just before serving for a fresh, zesty finish.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, add slices of avocado, and dollop vegan sour cream or cashew cream on top. Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Boost the Protein: Add cooked quinoa or a can of lentils for even more plant-based protein.
- Make It Spicier: Add more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick, ready-to-eat meals.
- Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Why This Recipe Works
This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Vegan Chili works because it combines hearty, nutrient-dense ingredients with bold spices that enhance every bite. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the smoky and spicy flavors perfectly, while the beans add substance and protein.
The optional maple syrup and lime juice elevate the dish by adding subtle sweetness and brightness. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
