Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love experimenting with bold flavors in my dishes, and this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice has become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of sweet potatoes, smoky paprika, and fluffy rice creates a delicious harmony that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect as a side or a main dish, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor. Every bite takes me on a culinary journey, making my weeknight dinners feel special and inviting.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:49:13.455Z

As I was looking for a unique but simple dish to impress my family, I stumbled across the idea of incorporating smoky paprika into sweet potatoes and rice. I decided to give it a whirl, and to my delight, the fragrant aroma filled my kitchen as it cooked. The sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky and slightly spicy paprika, creating a well-rounded dish.

I also found that sautéing the sweet potatoes first enhances their flavor and texture, ensuring they don't become too mushy when mixed with the rice. This technique allowed me to achieve a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the insides wonderfully tender, making each bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The unique combination of sweet potatoes and smoky paprika offers a new twist on rice dishes.
Easily adaptable with any ingredients you have on hand.
Comforting and filling, perfect for any meal of the day.

      

Perfecting the Texture

Cooking your rice in vegetable broth instead of water is a key technique that infuses the grains with flavor. Make sure the broth is at a rolling boil before adding the rice; this helps the grains begin to cook evenly right away. Keep the lid on while simmering to trap steam, which helps achieve a fluffy texture. If you find that your rice is often sticky, try rinsing it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.

For the sweet potatoes, uniformity in size is crucial to ensure even cooking. Aim for 1/2-inch cubes; this way, they'll soften nicely in the skillet. If you're pressed for time, using pre-cooked sweet potatoes can be a great shortcut—just add them to the skillet when you mix in the garlic and paprika, reducing cooking time significantly.

Flavor Variations

While the combination of smoky paprika and sweet potatoes is delightful, you can easily customize this dish. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño during the sautéing step. Conversely, if you prefer a milder taste, sweet smoked paprika works beautifully and can be adjusted to your liking.

Feel free to toss in other vegetables that you enjoy or have on hand, such as bell peppers or spinach. Adding a handful of greens towards the end of cooking not only boosts nutrition but also adds a pop of color. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as you introduce new ingredients, as this can affect the overall flavor balance.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful experience:

Ingredients

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

With everything ready, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Sauté the Sweet Potatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potato and onion. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Add Garlic and Paprika

Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with sweet potato mixture. Stir well to combine, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Spoon the smoky paprika sweet potato rice onto plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy!

Your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice is ready to serve. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider topping with roasted nuts or seeds.

Storage and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it ideal for meal prep. To store, allow the smoky paprika sweet potato rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make it soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions for up to three months; just be sure to label the containers with the date.

When reheating, adding a splash of broth or water can help reintroduce moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave it in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between to promote even heating. If reheating on the stovetop, use a non-stick pan over low heat and add liquid gradually until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice pairs well with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile option. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or chickpea patties for a plant-based meal. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta on top can enhance the dish with a creamy contrast to the smoky flavors.

For a more substantial meal, transform this dish into a grain bowl by layering it with roasted vegetables or greens, and a drizzle of tahini or balsamic glaze. The textural contrast of crunchy toppings, like nuts or seeds, can elevate your dish further, making your meal not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ What can I add for protein?

You can add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a hearty meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it. Ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.