Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili
I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili on busy days. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a hearty texture, while the spices add a vibrant flavor that warms me from the inside out. Plus, I love that I can throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do its magic, filling my home with amazing aromas while I tend to other tasks.
When I first tried making a chili in my crockpot, I was amazed at how easy it was to create a dish rich in flavor and nutrition. The key is the slow cooking process, which allows the sweet potatoes to soften perfectly while the beans absorb all the spices. I find that cooking it on low for several hours really brings out the depth of flavor, leaving everyone wondering how I did it!
One particular tip I’ve learned is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brightens the flavors remarkably and balances the sweetness of the potatoes. I often serve this chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado on top for added creaminess and richness. It always garners compliments from family and friends!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and filling, it's perfect for a hearty meal.
- Easy to prepare and cook, making it a great weeknight option.
- The combination of flavors is simply irresistible.
Ingredient Insights
The sweet potatoes in this chili not only contribute a natural sweetness but also provide a creamy texture once cooked. They should be peeled and diced into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes, as they tend to soften beautifully within the 4-hour cooking time, creating a comforting base for the chili. You can use a mix of orange-fleshed and purple-fleshed sweet potatoes for an added color contrast and variety in flavor.
White beans are the heart of this dish, offering a protein-packed alternative to meat while enhancing the overall creaminess. Cannellini or great northern beans work excellent here; both varieties have a mild flavor that complements the spices perfectly. To reduce the sodium content, consider using low-sodium canned beans or even cooking your beans from dry to better control the ingredients.
Cooking Tips
When adding the spices, sautéing the onion and garlic in a skillet before incorporating them into the crockpot can deepen their flavors. Cook them over medium heat until fragrant and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This extra step can lead to a richer base for your chili, making a noticeable difference in the overall taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Make sure to check the texture of the sweet potatoes towards the end of the cooking time. They should be fork-tender but not mushy. If you find they are cooking too quickly and starting to disintegrate, consider reducing the heat or stirring in vegetables with shorter cooking times toward the end, such as corn or zucchini.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this delicious chili:
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Once you have everything, you'll be ready to create this wonderful chili!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your chili:
Prepare the Ingredients
In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper.
Add Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Finish and Serve
Before serving, stir in the lime juice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Enjoy your homemade chili with your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips
- For added smokiness, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika. You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This chili stores incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags laid flat to save space. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
If you're planning on making this chili ahead of time, consider undercooking the sweet potatoes slightly; they will continue to cook during reheating. To boost flavors, you can also add a splash of lime juice or additional spices just before serving to refresh the chili's taste after refrigeration.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize your chili! For a slightly different flavor profile, swap the sweet potatoes for butternut squash or carrots. If you want something heartier, consider adding quinoa or brown rice during the last hour of cooking. For more texture, sprinkle in some frozen corn or chopped spinach to provide color and nutrients without much additional effort.
When serving, a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado atop your bowl can add a creamy finish that balances the dish's warmth. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. For a fun gathering, pair it with homemade cornbread to create a comforting meal that will please your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer it on the stovetop for about 30-40 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
→ Is this chili gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
→ What toppings can I add?
You can add toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or extra cilantro to enhance the flavors!
Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili
I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili on busy days. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a hearty texture, while the spices add a vibrant flavor that warms me from the inside out. Plus, I love that I can throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do its magic, filling my home with amazing aromas while I tend to other tasks.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Before serving, stir in the lime juice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added smokiness, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika. You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 57g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g