I first stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli recipe on one of those lazy Sundays where I just didn’t want to cook anything complicated. I’ve always loved a good hearty chilli, but the thought of adding sweet potatoes intrigued me. I had only ever used them in sweet dishes or roasted as a side, so this was a completely new take. It didn’t take long before I was hooked. The rich, earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes combined with the heat of the spices made for an unexpectedly perfect comfort meal.
This recipe is great because it hits that sweet spot between indulgent and healthy. If you’re like me and want a one-pot wonder that’s full of flavor and easy to throw together, this one’s for you. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it always delivers a satisfying meal.
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli Recipe
Jamie’s take on a sweet potato chilli feels like it was meant for chilly nights when you just need something filling and nutritious. This recipe brings a fresh twist to the classic, with ingredients that build depth of flavor but won’t have you stuck in the kitchen for hours. The key to its simplicity is using fresh, wholesome ingredients that speak for themselves.
What I appreciate most about this chilli is how it gives a nod to the traditional with beans and tomatoes, but it adds a surprising richness from the sweet potatoes. The balance of sweet and spicy is spot-on. It’s a dish that manages to be light yet comforting, and it’s totally customizable depending on what you’ve got in the pantry.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the beauty of Jamie’s Sweet Potato Chilli-most of the ingredients are staples that you probably already have. You won’t need anything too fancy or hard to find. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- Sweet Potatoes – The star of the show. I love how they add a creamy texture and a natural sweetness.
- Onion – For that rich, aromatic base that starts every great chilli.
- Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor. It infuses the oil when you sauté it.
- Chili Peppers – For that perfect amount of heat. You can use whichever type you like-jalapenos or red chili flakes work well.
- Canned Tomatoes – Gives the dish its rich, saucy texture.
- Black Beans – Adds protein and heartiness.
- Kidney Beans – For extra texture and flavor.
- Spices – Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder are the magic mix for seasoning.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the vegetables and helping to develop the flavor.
- Vegetable Stock – To give the chilli its body without overpowering the other flavors.
- Lime – A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens everything up.
- Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) – For garnish and a burst of freshness.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli
I remember the first time I made this dish. I was in my kitchen, chopping up the sweet potatoes and thinking this is going to take forever, but it honestly came together in under an hour. Here’s how you can make it, too:
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Prep The Veggies
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes. Dice your onions and chop the garlic finely.
- Slice the chili peppers (if using fresh ones).
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Sauté The Onion And Garlic
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
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Cook The Sweet Potatoes
- Add the sweet potatoes to the pot and stir them around to coat in the oil and aromatics.
- Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add The Spices
- Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir everything so the spices coat the veggies.
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Add The Tomatoes And Beans
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juices) and the beans. Stir to combine.
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Add The Stock
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the whole mixture to a simmer.
- Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. You want a nice, thick consistency.
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Finish With Lime And Coriander
- Squeeze in a fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor.
- Garnish with chopped coriander for that fresh finish.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The magic of this dish comes from the ingredients, so let’s dig into the science behind them.
- Sweet Potatoes – These are not only packed with vitamins like A and C, but their high fiber content makes them a fantastic addition to any meal, helping you feel full longer. They also have a natural sweetness that balances out the spice in the chili, making the flavors feel harmonious.
- Canned Tomatoes – They’re a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene helps reduce inflammation and is good for heart health. Plus, tomatoes naturally break down into a rich, umami-packed sauce when cooked.
- Beans – Both black beans and kidney beans are excellent sources of protein and fiber. They provide the chilli with the hearty base you want, especially if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative to meat.
- Spices – Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder each have their own health benefits. Cumin aids digestion, smoked paprika has anti-inflammatory properties, and chili powder (thanks to capsaicin) can help boost your metabolism.
Expert Tips
- Sweet Potato Substitution: If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, but still want something hearty, try butternut squash. It’s equally delicious but has a slightly milder flavor.
- Boost the Heat: For those who like it spicy, add more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce at the end to bring in some extra kick.
- Make it a Meal: If you want to turn this into a full meal, serve it over rice or with a side of cornbread. The chili itself is already filling, but adding a little more carb can make it extra satisfying.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier prep, you can throw everything in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. The flavors will meld even more, making it extra delicious.
Recipe Variations
- Meat Version: If you want to make this dish non-vegetarian, feel free to add ground turkey, beef, or chicken. Brown the meat first, then add it into the mix with the beans and tomatoes.
- Vegan: If you’re going full vegan, just skip the optional dairy toppings like sour cream or cheese. You can substitute with avocado slices or a cashew cream.
- Toppings: For extra flavor, top your chilli with diced avocado, Greek yogurt, or even a dollop of salsa.
Final Words
What I love most about this recipe is how forgiving and flexible it is. It’s one of those meals where you can add whatever you have on hand and it will still turn out great. It’s hearty, nourishing, and packed with flavors that really feel like comfort food at its best.
FAQs
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli Take To Cook?
It takes about 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato Chilli Vegan?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based ingredients.