Sweet Potato Chilli Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Treat

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This sweet potato chili is a unique twist on the classic chili recipe, offering a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (for added freshness)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, sweet potatoes, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Add the kidney beans, black beans, and corn.
  3. Season: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened.
  5. Add Sweetness and Freshness: About 5 minutes before the chili is done, stir in the maple syrup (if using) and lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
  6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with your favorite toppings such as avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Chili

  • Adjust Spice Level: The recipe includes optional cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder chili.
  • Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to make the chili even more hearty and nutritious.
  • Sweetness Balance: The maple syrup or agave nectar is optional, but it enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Adjust according to your taste preference.
  • Make Ahead: This chili can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Top It Off: Experiment with different toppings such as fresh lime wedges, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of cheese to enhance the chili.

This sweet potato chili recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones!

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