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sweet potato chili
Milica

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Vegetarian Chili – Crock Pot

For a cozy, satisfying meal with a touch of sweetness, try this Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these wholesome ingredients to get started:
  • Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium-sized peeled and diced
  • Black Beans: 2 cans drained and rinsed
  • Diced Tomatoes: 1 can use fire-roasted for extra flavor
  • Onion: 1 large chopped
  • Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 green chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves minced
Spices:
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon adds a warm twist
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 to 1 cup vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner consistency
  • Toppings and Garnishes
Enhance your chili with these delicious garnishes:
  • Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Adds a creamy tangy touch
  • Green Onions: Sliced for a pop of fresh flavor
  • Chopped Cilantro: For a fragrant and vibrant garnish
  • Sliced Jalapeños: For a bit of extra heat

Method
 

  1. Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, chopping the onion and bell peppers, and mincing the garlic. 
  2. Drain and rinse the black beans. Prepping everything ahead ensures a smooth cooking process.
  3. If you want to add a deeper flavor to your chili, briefly sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. In a small skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent, then add the garlic and bell peppers. Cook for another 3 minutes. Finally, stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon, letting the spices toast for a minute.
  4.  
  5. Transfer the sautéed vegetables (if you sautéed them) into the crockpot. Add the sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, and any remaining spices.
  6. Cover and set your crockpot to Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours. 
  7. For a thicker chili, use the canned tomato liquid, but if you prefer a more stew-like consistency, add vegetable broth or water.
  8. Once the cooking time is up, give the chili a taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt, pepper, or a bit more cinnamon for a hint of warmth. For a spicier kick, consider stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Notes

  • Classic Toppings: A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a cool contrast to the warm spices, while chopped cilantro brings freshness.
  • Go Green: Add sliced green onions for crunch and a pop of color.
  • Make It Spicy: If you love heat, sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce works beautifully.
  • Serve with Sides: Cornbread, tortilla chips, or even a simple side salad pair well with this chili and make for a complete meal.