![Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili](https://www.thespruceeats.com/thmb/n__p24x-BU6CN5Hi4kxHvFa1f2o=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/black-bean-vegetarian-chili-sweet-potatoes-3377973-hero-01-b761b0c353d243d2a468bc015a44f3e0.jpg)
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
Whether looking for a vegetarian meal or you simply want a healthy, plant-based dish the whole family will enjoy, this black bean and sweet potato chili is a clear winner. The sweet potatoes and carrots perfectly counteract the spiciness while combining with the beans to create a hearty texture.
All of the ingredients in this recipe are both vegetarian and vegan, and, if you use water or a gluten-free vegetable broth, it is gluten-free as well. This dish is an excellent source of protein for anyone, whether vegetarians, vegans, or kids. Serve with your favorite chili toppings and a side of cornbread.
“This chili is as delicious as it is beautiful. Packed with colorful vegetables, hearty black beans and warming seasonings, it makes a very satisfying vegan main course.” —Joan Velush
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Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
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2 medium carrots, sliced
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1/2 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped, optional
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1 (15-ounce) can black beans
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1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, or tomato sauce
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1/2 cup water, or vegetable broth
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne, or to taste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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Coarsely chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Steps to Make It
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Gather the ingredients.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
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Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
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Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper, if using, to the pot and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, 5 to 6 minutes.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
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Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the black beans, tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
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Simmer the chili, partially covered and stirring occasionally over medium-low heat, for 20 to 25 minutes, until the flavors have mingled and the sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are tender.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
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Serve in a bowl with desired chili toppings.
The Spruce / Kristina Vanni
Tasty Chili Toppings
Consider a toppings bar for your black bean and sweet potato chili, including salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced avocado, and crushed gluten-free corn tortilla chips. Sour cream, shredded cheese, or vegan substitutes are also good offerings (check labels if gluten-free foods are desired).
Using Dried Black Beans
This recipe uses canned black beans for convenience. You can start with dried black beans but you will need to soak and cook them before adding them to the recipe. Soak a little less than 2 cups for at least 3 hours (or overnight). You can add the soaked beans to the recipe and increase the cooking time to 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can bring the beans to a boil and let them simmer for 2 hours before adding them to the recipe.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for two to four days and reheat in the microwave. You can also freeze individual portions for later meals. Allow the chili to cool, place it in individual freezer containers, label with the contents and date, and freeze. The chili will maintain its flavor for up to six months. You can defrost it in the refrigerator (6 hours or overnight) before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
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154 | Calories |
5g | Fat |
23g | Carbs |
6g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
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Servings: 5 to 6 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 154 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 5g | 7% |
Saturated Fat 1g | 4% |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 591mg | 26% |
Total Carbohydrate 23g | 8% |
Dietary Fiber 8g | 30% |
Total Sugars 5g | |
Protein 6g | |
Vitamin C 17mg | 84% |
Calcium 76mg | 6% |
Iron 3mg | 14% |
Potassium 566mg | 12% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |