Pork
Powerproteinplates
Hearty Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
By Powerproteinplates Test KitchenReviewed by Powerproteinplates Editorial TeamPublished Mar 29, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026
Southwestern
50 mins
high-proteinvegangluten-freemeal-prep-friendlyeasy-recipesbalancedwhole-foodsbudget-friendlyenergy-boost
A nutrient-rich, vegan black bean and sweet potato chili infused with traditional Southwestern spices. This easy, gluten-free, and budget-friendly chili is perfect for meal prep and fitness enthusiasts seeking a protein-dense, energy-boosting, and wholesome comfort food.
Prep
15 min
Cook
35 min
Total
50 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Southwestern
Ingredients
Servings
6
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
-
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
-
Stir in the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
-
Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook the spices with the vegetables for 1 minute to release their flavors.
-
Add the cubed sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly to combine.
-
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are tender.
-
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the chili is thicker than desired, add additional vegetable broth to adjust consistency.
-
Remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lime juice to brighten flavors.
-
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro. Optional toppings include avocado slices or a dollop of vegan yogurt for added creaminess.
-
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Store refrigerated for up to 4 days, making this recipe ideal for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.
Customize your Hearty Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili to suit your dietary preferences and flavor profile with these ingredient substitutions:
- Protein Alternatives: Swap black beans with kidney beans, chickpeas, or lentils for variety. For non-vegan options, add lean ground chicken, turkey, or beef to boost protein content.
- Vegetable Swaps: Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash, carrots, or pumpkin to maintain sweetness and texture.
- Spices and Flavor: Adjust chili powder and smoked paprika for desired heat and smokiness levels. Use unsweetened, low-carb vegetable broth and tomatoes for keto or paleo adaptations.
- Dietary Modifications: Reduce olive oil or use a cooking spray for lower fat content. Add quinoa for extra protein and texture.
- Meal Prep and Serving Ideas: Portion chili into containers for quick reheats. Top with avocado slices, dairy-free cheese, or vegan sour cream for creaminess without dairy.
These modifications allow you to tailor a nutritious, flavorful chili that aligns seamlessly with PowerProteinPlates’ dedication to easy, healthy, and budget-friendly meals.
Protein Highlight
This Hearty Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili is a nutrient-dense, plant-based protein powerhouse. Black beans are rich in quality protein essential for muscle repair and sustained energy, while sweet potatoes add fiber and complex carbohydrates that help maintain stable blood sugar levels. This gluten-free and vegan chili is perfect for those prioritizing balanced nutrition, meal prep convenience, and energy support within a budget-friendly Southwestern-inspired dish.
Goal Fit
Designed for individuals focused on energy-boosting nutrition, this vegan chili supports muscle recovery and balanced dietary goals. Packed with fiber and plant protein from black beans, it sustains fullness and aids muscle maintenance while providing complex carbs from sweet potatoes for endurance and stamina.
Its low-fat, whole-food ingredients contribute to weight management by promoting nutrient density without added calories. Meal-prep-friendly and budget-conscious, this chili is excellent for consistent access to wholesome, anti-inflammatory meals that align with diverse fitness lifestyles.
Whether you’re fueling post-workout recovery, following a weight-loss plan, or powering through active days, this chili delivers balanced nutrition and delicious flavor tailored for your wellness journey.
Protein Density
This recipe exemplifies a protein-dense vegan meal through its core ingredient, black beans—a legume celebrated for its high plant protein content. Combined with sweet potatoes' complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, each serving offers a balanced source of sustained energy and satiety.
Ideal for fitness-focused individuals and meal-prep enthusiasts, this chili supports muscle building and weight management without animal products. The gluten-free, whole-food ingredients reflect a nutrient-rich, balanced approach supporting healthy eating patterns.
Enjoy this hearty chili as a flavorful, energy-boosting meal that fits clean eating and vegan lifestyles while remaining budget-friendly.
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