Simply Crockpot • Vegan
This crockpot sweet potato black bean chili is hearty, cozy, and loaded with plant-based protein. It’s the perfect weeknight slow cooker meal—thick, flavorful, and even better the next day.
Ingredients Instructions Tips Storage FAQ
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 12 minutes
Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Thick, hearty, and naturally vegan.
- Perfect for meal prep and freezing.
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients.
- Easy toppings make it feel “restaurant-level.”
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 2 cans (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice (finish)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, balance)
Ingredient notes:
• Sweet potatoes thicken the chili naturally as they cook.
• Maple syrup is optional—use it if your tomatoes taste acidic.
• Add corn for extra texture (1 cup frozen corn works great).
Instructions
- Add sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, broth, pepper, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Stir, then mash a few sweet potato pieces against the side to thicken (optional).
- Finish with lime juice (and maple syrup if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
Tip: Let the chili sit 10 minutes before serving—this helps it thicken.
Tips & Variations
- Top it: Avocado, cilantro, lime, tortilla strips, vegan sour cream.
- Add grains: Stir in cooked quinoa at the end for extra protein.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeño or ½ tsp cayenne.
- Thicker: Cook uncovered on HIGH for 15–20 minutes at the end.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently with a splash of broth if needed.
FAQ
Can I skip the sweet potatoes?
You can, but sweet potatoes add thickness and a cozy texture. Substitute butternut squash if you’d like.
How do I make it thicker?
Mash a few sweet potato pieces and cook uncovered 15–20 minutes at the end.
What should I serve with chili?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, or a simple side salad are all great options.
More Easy Vegan Crockpot Recipes
Want more cozy plant-based dinners? Explore our vegan slow cooker collection. Browse Vegan →