Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito
A flavor-packed vegetarian burrito featuring roasted sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, and a smoky chipotle lime crema. Perfect for a satisfying and healthy weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Roast the Sweet Potatoes
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- c.In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, 0.75 tsp salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- d.Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to promote browning.
- e.Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and the edges are slightly browned and caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Chipotle Lime Crema
- b.While the potatoes roast, prepare the crema. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced chipotle pepper, fresh lime juice, and 0.25 tsp salt.
- c.Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and add more chipotle for extra heat if desired. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Warm Tortillas and Fillings
- b.Gently warm the cooked rice and the rinsed black beans in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- c.Warm the tortillas to make them pliable. Wrap the stack in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds, or heat them one by one in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20-30 seconds per side.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Burritos
- b.Lay a warm tortilla on a clean, flat surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of rice in a line down the center, leaving a few inches of space at the top and bottom.
- c.Top the rice with a quarter of the roasted sweet potatoes and a quarter of the black beans.
- d.Drizzle generously with the chipotle lime crema.
- e.To roll, fold the shorter sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, take the bottom edge (closest to you) and pull it up and snugly over the filling. Roll it forward into a tight cylinder.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Sear the Burritos (Optional but Recommended)
- b.For a crispy, golden-brown exterior, heat 1 tsp of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
- c.Carefully place one or two burritos seam-side down in the hot skillet.
- d.Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp.
- e.Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining burritos.
- f.Serve immediately while warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overfill the burritos, or they will be difficult to roll and may burst during searing.
- 2Roasting the sweet potatoes until they have slightly browned, caramelized edges is key for developing a deep, sweet flavor.
- 3Warming the tortillas is crucial; it makes them soft and pliable, preventing them from tearing when you roll them.
- 4For meal prep, store the roasted potatoes, rice, beans, and crema in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and sear just before eating.
- 5To freeze, allow burritos to cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Make it Vegan
Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or a vegan sour cream. Ensure your flour tortillas are certified vegan.
Make it Gluten FreeMake it Gluten-Free
Use large, high-quality gluten-free tortillas. Be aware that they can be more delicate, so warm them carefully to prevent tearing.
Add More ProteinAdd More Protein
Mix in 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, crumbled chorizo, seasoned ground turkey, or scrambled tofu with the black beans for an extra protein boost.
Extra VeggiesExtra Veggies
Sauté 1 cup of sliced bell peppers and onions with a pinch of salt until softened and add them to the burrito filling for more flavor and nutrients.
Add FreshnessAdd Freshness
Include fresh elements inside the burrito like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or pickled red onions for a bright, tangy contrast.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Black beans and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut microbiome, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Excellent Source of Complex Carbs
Sweet potatoes provide sustained energy through complex carbohydrates, making this a filling and satisfying meal that keeps you energized for hours without a sugar crash.
Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants
Sweet potatoes are exceptionally high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. This antioxidant is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Good Source of Plant-Based Protein
The combination of black beans and rice provides a good source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Frequently asked questions
Each burrito contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the size of the tortilla and the amount of crema used. It's a substantial and nutritionally balanced meal.