Spiced Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos

Published 2025-06-30

When you crave big taco flavor without meat, these Spiced Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos deliver every time. As a veteran recipe tester and food writer, I’ve dialed in the perfect blend of warm spices, velvety sweet potatoes, and hearty black beans—all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. Ready in under 40 minutes and endlessly adaptable, this vegetarian weeknight winner shines with fresh toppings and a zesty lime crema. Let’s dive in:


Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)

  • Salt and pepper

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 8 small corn tortillas

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage slaw

  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion

  • 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro

  • Lime wedges, for serving

For Lime Crema:

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Pinch of salt


Step‑by‑Step Process

  1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
    Preheat oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Toss potatoes with oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.

  2. Warm the Beans
    While potatoes roast, heat black beans in a small saucepan over medium‑low heat with a pinch of salt until warmed through. Mash about a third of the beans with the back of a spoon for creamy texture.

  3. Prep Lime Crema
    Whisk yogurt, lime juice, and salt in a bowl; set aside.

  4. Toast Tortillas
    Warm tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat, about 30 seconds per side, until pliable and lightly charred.

  5. Assemble Tacos
    Layer sweet potatoes and black beans in tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw, red onion, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema. Serve with extra lime wedges.


Why This Works

  • Contrast of Textures: Soft, spiced potatoes meet creamy beans and crisp slaw.

  • Bright Finishes: Lime crema and fresh cilantro elevate the earthy base flavors.

  • Simple Prep: Minimal ingredients, big payoff—ideal for busy cooks.

These tacos are equally welcome at Taco Tuesday gatherings, casual family dinners, or as a make‑ahead lunch. Flavorful, filling, and fully vegetarian—what’s not to love?