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: 2 cups rice; 1 medium sweet potato, diced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice because it combines rich flavors with a beautiful presentation. The combination of sweet potatoes and smoky paprika creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I enjoy pairing it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal. This dish not only brings warmth to my table but also offers a unique twist that surprises my guests every time. It's quick to prepare and the resulting flavors truly elevate my weeknight dinners.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:01:09.058Z

When I first experimented with Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice, I was drawn in by the idea of pairing sweet and savory flavors. The first time I cooked it, I was amazed at how the smokiness of the paprika enhanced the natural sweetness of the potatoes. It’s a dish that requires minimal ingredients, yet it tastes like a gourmet meal. My secret? I let the sweet potatoes caramelize slightly in the pan before adding the rice.

Throughout my culinary journeys, I've realized that the best meals often come from simple combinations. This dish is a testament to that idea. The earthy undertones of paprika, combined with the sweet notes from the potatoes, leave a delightful impression. I often make extra to enjoy the following day, as the flavors seem to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors
Nutritious and hearty, making it a wholesome meal
Easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Achieving perfectly cooked rice can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques, you’ll have fluffy grains every time. One crucial step is to thoroughly rinse your rice before cooking; this removes excess starch that can lead to gummy results. For this recipe, a medium-grain rice variety works well due to its ability to absorb flavors while remaining tender. If you find your rice undercooked after the initial 20 minutes, add an extra 1/4 cup of broth and continue to simmer until soft.

When cooking the rice, be attentive to the simmering process. Once you add the vegetable broth, look for a gentle boil. If the heat is too high and the broth boils violently, it can lead to unevenly cooked rice. Keeping the heat low and covering the skillet ensures an even cooking process, allowing the rice to soak up the wonderful flavors from the sweet potato and spices.

Ingredient Variations

While sweet potatoes are a star in this dish, you can experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or butternut squash for a different flavor profile. Both alternatives will provide sweetness and nutrition, complementing the smoky paprika beautifully. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or even frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture and color.

For those avoiding grains, quinoa or farro is a great alternative. When substituting quinoa, remember it cooks slightly faster, so reduce the simmering time to about 15 minutes. This change adds a nutty flavor and enhances the dish's protein content, making it an excellent option for gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups rice
1 medium sweet potato, diced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the sweet potato, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic. Set these aside for the next steps.

Cook the Sweet Potato

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook until they begin to soften and caramelize, about 10 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, around 3 to 5 minutes.

Combine and Cook Rice

Add the rice and smoked paprika, stirring well to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables or protein to the dish for a more complete meal. Also, using leftover rice can help speed up the cooking process.

Storage and Meal Prep

Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice can be a fantastic dish for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This dish reheats well; I recommend using a microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist while reheating. Alternatively, you can gently rewarm it on the stove with a touch of olive oil and a lid to maintain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked rice. It freezes well for up to two months; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as you would with fresh rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice as a base for grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal. Adding a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top will provide a lovely tanginess that cuts through the sweetness of the sweet potato. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish and add a pop of color.

For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with roasted chickpeas for protein. The crunchiness of the chickpeas will contrast beautifully with the soft rice, creating a delightful texture combination. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top can also enhance the flavors, making it a refreshing meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, all of the ingredients are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish spicy?

Certainly! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to enhance the heat.