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 rice (long-grain or basmati); 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love cooking with sweet potatoes, and the addition of smoky paprika takes this dish to another level. It brings a depth of flavor that's both comforting and exciting, while the vibrant colors make it visually appealing. Whether served as a side or a vegetarian main, this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice is hearty enough to satisfy. I always find that a touch of citrus enhances the sweetness perfectly, creating a beautifully balanced meal that warms the soul.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:52:14.023Z

When I first experimented with combining sweet potatoes and rice, I was surprised by how well they complemented each other. The creamy texture of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the fluffy rice, creating a lovely mouthfeel. My secret is to roast the sweet potatoes until they're caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness and brings out incredible flavors when combined with smoky paprika.

I've also discovered that adding a splash of lime juice just before serving elevates the dish further. The brightness of the lime cuts through the richness, making each bite incredibly refreshing. Trust me; this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for meal prep!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes.
Smoky paprika brings a unique flavor profile that’s unforgettable.
It’s an easy one-pot meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners.

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, offering not only sweetness but also a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rice. When roasted, they become caramelized, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the entire meal. Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes, as they tend to have the perfect balance of firmness and sweetness. When cutting them into uniform dice, aim for pieces about 1 inch to ensure even cooking and a pleasing bite in every mouthful.

Using starchy varieties of sweet potatoes, like Garnet or Jewel, will yield the best results in this recipe. Their natural sweetness harmonizes excellently with smoky paprika, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. If you're aiming for a lower glycemic option, you can swap sweet potatoes with other root vegetables like butternut squash or carrots, keeping in mind that this will alter the overall taste and texture slightly.

Cooking the Rice Perfectly

Cooking the rice properly is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice. I recommend rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This step helps prevent the rice from becoming overly sticky. After rinsing, toasting the rice in the pan with the onions and garlic for a minute before adding the liquid not only enhances the flavor but also improves the final texture, providing a nuttier taste.

For consistency, measure your vegetable broth carefully. A 2:1 ratio of liquid to long-grain rice usually works best, ensuring the rice absorbs just enough moisture to cook through without becoming mushy. If you find your rice still feels hard after the suggested simmering time, add a couple of tablespoons of water and continue cooking with the lid on for a few more minutes until tender.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious dish!

Main Ingredients

1 cup rice (long-grain or basmati)
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to create your dish!

Cooking Instructions

Cook with love!

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and half of the smoked paprika. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they're golden and tender.

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they’re soft. Add the rice and the remaining smoked paprika, stirring to coat the rice for about a minute.

Combine and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Mix and Serve

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and gently mix in the roasted sweet potatoes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, and serve garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Enjoy your delicious Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sautéed bell peppers along with the onions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, adding a tablespoon of water to the rice will help restore its moisture, preventing a dry texture. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel or in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method keeps the rice fluffy and the sweet potatoes tender.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice. Freeze it in meal-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring all air is removed to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or use a microwave on low power to gently defrost and heat up in one go.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own but can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to create a more complete meal. Try serving it with a cooling yogurt sauce or a zesty cilantro-lime dressing to enhance the flavors further. If you're looking for additional protein, consider adding chickpeas or black beans stirred in just before serving for a hearty vegetarian meal that will keep you satisfied.

Another option is to incorporate some greens; sautéed spinach or kale mixed in after cooking adds a splash of color and a nutritional boost. For a meal prep-friendly version, serve this dish over a bed of leafy greens to build a nourishing salad that can be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for lunchboxes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember that brown rice will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is it necessary to roast the sweet potatoes?

Roasting adds an incredible depth of flavor, but you can also boil them if you're short on time.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is vegan.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.