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Vegetarian Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

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4.3 from 84 reviews

A hearty and flavorful vegetarian sweet potato chili that can be easily made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Packed with nutritious vegetables, beans, and warm spices like chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon, this chili offers a delicious twist on classic comfort food. It’s perfect for those seeking a satisfying meatless meal full of rich texture and bold taste.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 ½ tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon

Canned Goods and Liquids

  • 1 28-oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 15-oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tsp lime juice

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • Cheese
  • Avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the avocado oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven or large pot. Add the diced onion, green and red bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
  2. Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic along with chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Continue sautéing for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and develop flavor.
  3. Combine Main Ingredients: Add the drained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Simmer the Chili (Stovetop Method): Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the chili simmer gently for 20 minutes to fully cook the vegetables and meld the flavors.
  5. Finish and Serve (Stovetop): After 20 minutes, remove from heat and stir in the lime juice. Serve the chili hot with your choice of toppings such as chopped cilantro, sour cream, cheese, or avocado.
  6. Slow Cooker Method: Alternatively, combine all ingredients except for the lime juice in a large slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and the ingredients to tenderize.
  7. Finish and Serve (Slow Cooker): Stir in lime juice before serving hot. Garnish with your favorite chili toppings for added freshness and creaminess.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
  • To keep it vegan, use dairy-free toppings instead of sour cream or cheese.
  • Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and thickness; you can substitute with butternut squash if desired.
  • Beans can be swapped based on availability—pinto or cannellini beans work well too.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.