Lentil Sweet Potato Chili Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, hearty meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, then you absolutely must try this Lentil Sweet Potato Chili. It’s the perfect bowl of comfort, packed with wholesome ingredients that meld together into a rich, flavorful stew. The tender lentils and sweet potatoes bring incredible texture and heartiness, while the chili powder and cumin add just the right touch of warmth and spice. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want to enjoy a wholesome plant-based meal, this Lentil Sweet Potato Chili delivers satisfying goodness in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together seamlessly to create that perfect balance of texture, color, and taste. Each one plays an essential role, building layers of flavor while keeping it healthy and satisfying.

• Yellow onion: Adds a savory sweetness and depth when sautéed or cooked down with the chili.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives a fragrant punch that wakes up your taste buds.
• Sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft texture contrast perfectly with the lentils and spices.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and juiciness to the chili’s base, brightening every bite.
• Red kidney beans: Provide protein and a creamy bite that complements the lentils.
• Frozen corn: Adds bursts of natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.
• Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that ties all the ingredients together and cooks the lentils to tender perfection.
• Dried green lentils: Nutritious and filling, they absorb the spices and broth beautifully.
• Chili powder: Gives the chili its signature warm, smoky spice.
• Cumin: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor that rounds out the spice profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance every flavor.
• Diced avocado (optional): Creamy garnish that cools the heat and adds richness.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Bright, herbal notes that lift the entire dish.

How to Make Lentil Sweet Potato Chili

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by chopping one yellow onion and mincing three cloves of garlic—this will lay the foundation of flavor for your chili. Peel and chop two sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and become delightfully tender.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

In your slow cooker or Instant Pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, sweet potatoes, two cans of diced tomatoes, one can of drained and rinsed red kidney beans, 1 ½ cups of frozen corn, 3 ½ cups of vegetable broth (or 3 cups if using the pressure cooker method), and 1 ½ cups of dried green lentils. Sprinkle in two tablespoons of chili powder and two teaspoons of cumin, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to distribute the spices and ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Cooking in Slow Cooker

Set your slow cooker to low and let the chili cook for 8 hours, or on high for 4 ½ hours. This slow, gentle cooking allows the lentils to soften and the sweet potatoes to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while the flavors deepen and meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cooking in Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker

If you’re using a 6-quart Instant Pot, add all ingredients (with 3 cups of broth) and lock the lid securely. Set it to pressure cook for 10 minutes. It will take about 30 minutes to come to pressure. After cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure before opening the lid carefully. Your chili will be perfectly cooked with vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

After cooking, taste the chili and add extra salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like a bit more heat. Adjust seasonings one teaspoon at a time until it hits your personal flavor mark. This step ensures every bowl suits your taste buds exactly.

How to Serve Lentil Sweet Potato Chili

Garnishes

To make your Lentil Sweet Potato Chili even more inviting, top it with diced avocado for creamy richness, or sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to add a lively herbal burst. These garnishes elevate both the flavor and presentation, making each serving feel special.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides like warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad. These sides complement the chili’s hearty texture and add variety in every meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chili in small mason jars for packed lunches or layered with vegan sour cream and shredded vegan cheese for a chili bake. You can also ladle the chili over baked potatoes or stuff it into bell peppers for a festive, eye-catching presentation that your friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Lentil Sweet Potato Chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it a perfect meal prep option during busy weeks.

Freezing

This chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you’ll always have a healthy, ready-made meal waiting anytime you need it.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your chili gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it seems too thick. Give it a good stir and savor the comforting flavors once again.

FAQs

Can I use brown lentils instead of green lentils?

Absolutely! Brown lentils work just as well and have a similar cooking time and texture, so feel free to substitute them if green lentils aren’t available.

Do I have to soak the lentils before cooking?

No soaking is necessary for the dried green lentils in this recipe. They cook perfectly within the slow cooker or Instant Pot timeframe.

Can I make this chili without a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! You can prepare it on the stovetop by sautéing your onions and garlic first, then adding the remaining ingredients and simmering for 30-40 minutes on medium-low heat until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Will canned kidney beans get mushy after slow cooking for hours?

In this recipe, the canned beans hold up nicely and don’t become mushy even after long cooking times, but if you’re worried, simply add them halfway through the cooking process.

How spicy is this Lentil Sweet Potato Chili?

The spice level is mild to moderate with the base chili powder and cumin. You can always add extra chili powder one teaspoon at a time to reach your preferred heat level without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Lentil Sweet Potato Chili is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chili never fails to satisfy. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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