Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Nothing beats a bowl of chili on a cold day! This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is full of flavor and the perfect cozy meal for the family. Put everything in the crock pot in the morning and come back later to dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply chop, toss, and let your slow cooker do all the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and beans creates a rich, hearty taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish for gatherings, this chili fits any occasion.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber and vitamins from sweet potatoes and beans, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Delicious Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precision when dicing ingredients, enhancing overall texture in your chili.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes (skin removed and cut into cubes)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (15 oz. each)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz.)
• 1 can pinto beans
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can kidney beans
• 2 bell peppers, diced (any color works!)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 T cumin
• 2 T chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ – ½ tsp red chili flakes
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ – 1 tsp sea salt, more or less to taste

Thickening Agent

• ⅓ c tomato paste(more to thicken as desired)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Combine all ingredients except the tomato paste into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Set Cooking Time

Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 6-8 hours or until sweet potatoes are soft.

Step 3: Thicken Chili

When sweet potatoes are fully softened, add in tomato paste to thicken the chili. Allow to sit for several minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve

Serve with shredded cheese, avocado, or cilantro. This dish is even better the second day, so leftovers are a bonus! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Serving your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese for a creamy, rich flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s spices perfectly.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and enhances the presentation.

Serve with Grains

• Rice: A scoop of fluffy rice makes the meal more filling and balances the flavors.
• Quinoa: This nutritious grain is a great gluten-free option to pair with chili.
• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is perfect for dipping into the chili.

Create a Chili Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, or lime wedges for guests to customize their bowls.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

To make your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili powder or red pepper flakes based on your personal heat preference.
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans such as chickpeas or lentils for added texture and taste.
• Let It Sit: Allowing it to sit for several minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Cornbread: A classic choice that pairs well with chili; bake it fresh for that warm touch.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds subtle flavors and is perfect for soaking up the chili.
3. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette adds freshness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies make a colorful and healthy addition to the meal.
5. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole with crunchy chips creates a fun appetizer before serving chili.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa and beans complement the chili’s flavors while adding variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is a simple and delicious dish, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much liquid – Adding excessive broth or water can make your chili soupy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a thick and hearty consistency.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly – Unevenly chopped ingredients can lead to inconsistent cooking. Cut your sweet potatoes and other vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments – Every palate is different. Taste your chili before serving and adjust spices and salt as needed for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the sweet potatoes – While soft sweet potatoes are ideal, overcooking can make them mushy. Check for doneness periodically, especially if cooking on high heat.
• Neglecting garnishes – Toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro add flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; they elevate your chili!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let the chili cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

• Freeze in suitable containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili.

Can I make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili vegan?

Yes! This recipe is inherently plant-based since it uses beans and sweet potatoes as main ingredients, making it perfect for vegans.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili?

Feel free to add different beans, vegetables like corn or zucchini, or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili?

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with avocado or shredded cheese if desired.

How long does Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!