Name: Vegan Sweet Potato Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans kidney beans (15oz each); 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled & cubed); 1 large onion (sliced); 1 large carrot (chopped); 1 large red bell pepper (chopped); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsps tomato paste (or 2 small tomatoes, chopped); 5 cups vegetable stock (or water); 2 tbsps ancho chile powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons oregano; ½ teaspoon chipotle chile powder (optional); 1 tbsp oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh cilantro leaves (or green onions); Avocado (peeled & sliced); Taro chips (or corn chips)

why make this recipe

Vegan Sweet Potato Chili is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort, especially on chilly days. It is hearty and satisfying, packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes, beans, and fresh vegetables. This chili is not just delicious; it’s also healthy and budget-friendly. Whether you are a vegan or simply looking to enjoy more plant-based meals, this chili is a perfect choice.

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how to make Vegan Sweet Potato Chili

Making Vegan Sweet Potato Chili is easy and can be done in several ways — stovetop, crockpot, or Instant Pot. Follow the method that works best for you.

Ingredients

2 cans kidney beans (15oz each, See Notes)
2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled & cubed)
1 large onion (sliced)
1 large carrot (chopped)
1 large red bell pepper (chopped)
5 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsps tomato paste (or 2 small tomatoes, chopped)
5 cups vegetable stock (or water)
2 tbsps ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
½ teaspoon chipotle chile powder (spicy but optional)
1 tbsp oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro leaves (or green onions)
Avocado (peeled & sliced)
Taro chips (or corn chips)

Directions

Stovetop Method Using Canned Beans

In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
Add sliced onion, chopped carrot, and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add cubed sweet potatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, vegetable stock, and spices. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Crockpot or Slow Cooker Method Using Dried Beans

Soak dried kidney beans overnight, then rinse.
Place all ingredients into the crockpot. Add the soaked beans and enough vegetable stock.
Stir well and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Instant Pot Method Using Dried Beans

Soak dried kidney beans overnight and rinse.
Add oil to the Instant Pot and sauté onion, carrot, and red bell pepper until softened.
Stir in garlic, sweet potatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and spices.
Add vegetable stock and cover the lid. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Let it release naturally.

how to serve Vegan Sweet Potato Chili

Serve your Vegan Sweet Potato Chili hot in bowls. Top it with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions and slices of avocado for extra flavor and creaminess. For crunch, you can add taro chips or corn chips on the side. Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite bread or rice.

how to store Vegan Sweet Potato Chili

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Vegan Sweet Potato Chili

Adjust spices to your taste. Add more chipotle powder if you like it spicy.
Feel free to mix in other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or corn.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the chili before serving.
Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking.

variation

You can replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash or pumpkin for a different flavor. To make it even more filling, add cooked quinoa or bulgur wheat.

FAQs

Can I use other beans instead of kidney beans?
Yes, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or any beans you prefer.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How can I make this chili spicier?
Add more chipotle powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also include diced jalapeños.