Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl
A hearty and flavorful bowl featuring sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1lbsweet potato
- 1canblack beans, drained and rinsed
- 1cupuncooked rice
- 1tbspolive oil
- 1tspchili powder
- 1tspground cumin
- 1/2tspgarlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1piecelime, juiced
- 1handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1avocado, sliced
How to make Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl
Cook the Rice
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prep the Sweet Potato
Peel the sweet potato and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes.
Cook the Sweet Potato
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or a splash of water. Toss in the sweet potato cubes and stir to coat.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Add a tablespoon of water if they stick, and cover the pan for a few minutes to steam them if needed.
Add the Beans and Spices
Pour the drained and rinsed black beans into the skillet with the sweet potatoes.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook, letting the spices bloom and the beans heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assemble the Bowls
Spoon cooked rice into each bowl. Top with a generous scoop of the sweet potato and black bean mixture.
Add optional toppings: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, or add a few slices of avocado.
Serve
Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Tricks
Start cooking the rice first so it cooks while you prep the rest.
Smaller sweet potato cubes cook faster and get a nice texture.
Add a tablespoon of water if the sweet potatoes stick, and cover the pan for a few minutes to steam them if needed.
FAQS
How do I cook rice for the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl?
To cook the rice for your Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add 1 cup of uncooked rice along with a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Can I make the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl vegan?
Yes, the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl is naturally vegan! It features sweet potatoes, black beans, and rice, making it a hearty and nutritious option for those following a plant-based diet. Just ensure that any additional toppings, like avocado or lime, are also vegan-friendly.
What can I substitute for sweet potatoes in this bowl recipe?
If you don't have sweet potatoes on hand, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even roasted carrots for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the substitute you choose.
How should I store leftovers of the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl?
To store leftovers of your Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What are some great toppings to pair with the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl?
For the Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato Bowl, you can enhance the flavors with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, or sliced avocado. Other delicious toppings include diced tomatoes, jalapeños for extra heat, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
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North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia