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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice because it combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm, smoky flavor of paprika. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that warms the soul. It’s perfect as a comforting side dish or a filling main course. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this dish not only satisfies my hunger but also brings joy to my dinner table. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight meals.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:04:11.244Z

When I first tried Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice, I was taken aback by how such a simple combination could create an explosion of flavors. I experimented with various spices, and the addition of smoked paprika completely transformed the dish, giving it a depth I hadn't anticipated. It became a staple in my kitchen!

The beauty of this recipe lies in how easily it can be customized. Sometimes, I toss in some spinach or chickpeas to boost its nutritional value. Cooking the sweet potatoes until they’re soft but not mushy ensures a delightful texture that complements fluffy rice perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet, caramelized notes of the potatoes perfectly balance the smoky paprika
A deliciously satisfying meal that's as nutritious as it is tasty
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Rice

For this dish, long-grain rice works wonders due to its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors without clumping. If you prefer a nuttier taste, consider using basmati or jasmine rice, but be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary slightly. Always rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent any stickiness during cooking.

When cooking the rice, it's essential to maintain the right heat level. Too high, and the broth may evaporate too quickly; too low, and the rice can become undercooked. You want to bring the broth to a bubbling boil initially, then reduce it to a gentle simmer once covered. This technique ensures each grain cooks evenly and remains separate.

Sweet Potato Preparation Tips

Peeling the sweet potatoes opens them up to a delightful caramelization while roasting. When dicing, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and browning. Smaller cubes will caramelize faster, resulting in a delicious contrast to the fluffy rice. If you prefer a whole-food approach, you could leave the skins on, which also adds extra fiber and nutrients.

Feel free to experiment with spices! Beyond smoked paprika, adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or ground cumin for earthiness can transform the flavor profile of the sweet potatoes. Just keep an eye on them in the oven to prevent burning—look for golden edges as an indicator of doneness.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sweet Potatoes

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Rice

In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute.

Add the rice, stirring to coat with the onion mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

Combine and Serve

Once both the sweet potatoes and rice are cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the roasted sweet potatoes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice before serving. This will brighten the dish and enhance the smokiness of the paprika.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is fantastic for meal prep! Cooked rice and roasted sweet potatoes can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply microwave or place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sweet potatoes and rice. Spread the sweet potatoes on baking sheets to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. The rice can be portioned out in freezer-safe containers. When ready to consume, thaw and reheat directly without compromising flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables, enhancing your meal with its vibrant flavors. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at serving can brighten the dish, creating a lovely balance between smoky and refreshing.

For a vegetarian twist, consider adding black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and texture. Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad to create a complete and satisfying meal without much fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, beans, or even as a bed for roasted chicken.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.