Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

This hearty and satisfying Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is a perfect weeknight meal. It's easy to make, and it's packed with flavor. The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices creates a rich and flavorful dish that will warm you up on a cold night.

This recipe was inspired by a trip I took to Santa Fe, New Mexico. I was there for a food festival, and I had the opportunity to try some of the best chili in the world. One of the chilis I tried was made with sweet potatoes and black beans, and I was instantly hooked. I knew I had to recreate it at home, so I experimented with different ingredients and spices until I came up with this recipe.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and red bell pepper and cook until they are softened.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the sweet potatoes and black beans.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or cheese.

Why It Works

• The combination of sweet potatoes and black beans creates a unique and flavorful dish.
• The spices in this recipe are perfectly balanced, creating a chili that is both flavorful and hearty.
• This chili is easy to make, and it's a great way to use up leftover sweet potatoes.