Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice because it's a delightful combination of flavors and textures that excite my taste buds. The sweet, creamy goodness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the warm smokiness of paprika, creating a symphony of tastes that’s hard to resist. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings comforting warmth to the dinner table, and the vibrant colors are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side, it's sure to become a favorite at any meal.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:31:16.181Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easily the flavors meld together. The sweet potatoes roast to perfection, becoming tender and slightly caramelized, while the paprika adds a distinct smokiness that elevates the dish. I found that using a mix of regular and smoked paprika gives a balanced depth of flavor, which I highly recommend for the best taste.

Over time, I've perfected my method by sautéing onions and garlic before adding the sweet potatoes and rice. This step enhances the aromatic profile and infuses the dish with a rich savory base that's simply irresistible. Whether served as a side or a main, this rice is a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes
Colorful presentation that brightens up any table
Nutritious and filling for a wholesome meal

      

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice plays an important role in crafting its unique flavor profile. The sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture that balances the smokiness of the paprika. Choosing the right sweet potato variety can further enhance this dish; I recommend using garnet or jewel sweet potatoes for their vibrant color and rich flavor.

The smoked paprika is essential for imparting a warm, smoky essence. I prefer using a Spanish smoked paprika as it tends to have a more intense flavor compared to the regular variant. Furthermore, using fresh garlic and onions not only boosts the overall taste but also adds depth to the dish, making each bite hearty and satisfying.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) allows for even caramelization, enhancing their sweetness and providing a delightful contrast to the fluffy rice. Make sure to spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming; this will ensure they become tender with slightly crispy edges, maximizing their flavor.

When sautéing the onions, keep an eye on the heat. Medium heat is ideal to prevent them from browning too quickly; instead, aim for a transparent, soft texture that allows their natural sugars to develop. Adding garlic at the end of the onion sauté ensures it doesn’t burn, allowing the sweet aroma to infuse throughout the dish.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the cooking instructions!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice:

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized.

Sauté Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and the broth is absorbed.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and gently fold in the roasted sweet potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider topping the dish with toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain optimal texture, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This prevents the rice from becoming dry and helps the flavors re-emerge.

You can also freeze this sweet potato rice for longer storage. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It should keep well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for the best results.

Variations and Additions

Consider adding some protein to this dish for a more complete meal. Chickpeas or black beans make excellent vegetarian options that blend beautifully with the sweet and smoky flavors. If you enjoy meat, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would complement the dish without overpowering it.

For an extra pop of flavor, try mixing in some feta cheese or goat cheese just before serving. The creaminess of the cheese enhances the rice’s texture and adds tangy notes that work splendidly with the sweetness of the potatoes and the smokiness of paprika.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for some heat.