Spiced Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos
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
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.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.Prep Lime Crema
Whisk yogurt, lime juice, and salt in a bowl; set aside.Toast Tortillas
Warm tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat, about 30 seconds per side, until pliable and lightly charred.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?
