Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons smoky paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating cozy, flavorful dishes that transport me to my happy place. Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice has become a favorite in our household for its warm flavors and vibrant colors. The sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with the smoky paprika. This recipe is not only comforting, but it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate nutrition into a meal. It comes together quickly and is sure to impress at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:16:16.067Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining sweet potatoes with smoky paprika, I wasn’t sure how well they would mesh. To my delight, the sweet, tender potatoes paired beautifully with the robust flavor of the spices. I particularly enjoy adding a bit of garlic and onion, which elevate the dish and create a wonderful aroma as it cooks.

This recipe has become my go-to for a weeknight meal and special occasions alike. I always recommend serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor and a stunning presentation!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors that bring a smile to your face
Nutritious ingredients that make it a wholesome meal
Ideal as a side dish or a stand-alone vegetarian option

      

The Heart of the Dish: Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, providing not only a sweet and earthy flavor but also a vibrant color that enhances the dish. Their natural creaminess adds a delightful texture, especially when cooked properly. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin to ensure great results. If you're short on time, consider using precooked sweet potatoes or even canned sweet potatoes to expedite the process, ensuring you get that lovely sweetness without lengthy prep.

Cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces is crucial for even cooking. Aim for about half-inch cubes, which will cook through in the 5-minute sauté. This helps them caramelize slightly while remaining tender in the final dish. If you prefer an added smoky flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes in the oven before adding them to the rice. Simply toss the diced sweet potatoes in olive oil, sprinkle with smoky paprika, and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Perfecting the Rice

Rinsing the basmati rice is a key step that many may overlook. This not only eliminates excess starch but also allows the grains to remain separate and fluffy after cooking. Aim to rinse the rice until the water runs clear, which typically takes 2-3 cycles. This extra step can significantly improve the texture, preventing that sticky encounter which is common with improperly washed rice.

When adding the vegetable broth, consider using homemade stock for a deeper flavor profile. You can also experiment with different broth types, such as mushroom or roasted garlic, to enhance the overall taste. For a heartier dish, feel free to add a handful of peas or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking—the residual heat will cook them perfectly while adding extra nutrients and color.

Ingredients

For the Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons smoky paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process.

Steps

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps your rice fluffy.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and translucent. Then, add the diced sweet potatoes and sauté for about 5 minutes.

Add Spices and Rice

Stir in the smoky paprika and cumin to the sweet potato mixture, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors. Next, add the rinsed rice and vegetable broth. Mix well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad for a complete dinner!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider topping with toasted nuts or seeds. They not only enhance the texture but also increase the nutritional value.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To maintain the best texture, I suggest allowing it to cool completely before sealing it. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help revive the moisture, as rice tends to dry out in the fridge. Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to portion it into meal-sized servings for easy defrosting. To reheat from frozen, simply transfer the portion to the refrigerator the night before or use the microwave—heat on medium in short intervals, stirring frequently until fully warm.

Serving Suggestions

This dish makes a fantastic side for grilled meats or the perfect base for a vegetarian bowl. Serve alongside roasted or grilled vegetables to create a colorful and nutritious meal. You might also consider topping it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to add a tangy touch that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

Another serving idea is to turn it into a buddha bowl. Layer the smoky rice with your favorite protein, like chickpeas or grilled chicken, along with fresh greens and a drizzle of tahini or lemon dressing. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but also makes for a visually stunning and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! As long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and the rice itself, it's a wonderful gluten-free option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already plant-based, so it’s perfect for vegans.