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; 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love cooking with sweet potatoes, and this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice has quickly become one of my favorite dishes. The combination of tender rice with the naturally sweet and earthy flavor of sweet potatoes, enhanced by the smoky paprika, creates a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s a fulfilling dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins or can be enjoyed on its own. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with it, too!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:22:17.122Z

When I first experimented with this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice, I wanted to elevate the humble rice dish into something more exciting. Incorporating sweet potatoes not only adds nutrition, but their sweetness counterbalances the smoky flavors beautifully. I love to serve it as a base for grilled chicken or alongside a fresh green salad.

One tip I’ve learned is to roast the sweet potatoes until they caramelize slightly, which intensifies their flavor. The smokiness from the paprika brings depth to the dish, making every bite delicious. I really believe this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of smoky and sweet flavors
Nutritious and filling, great as a main or side
Simple to make with just a few clean ingredients

      

Understanding the Role of Paprika

Paprika plays a crucial role in this dish, offering not only its signature smoky flavor but also a vibrant color that enhances the visual appeal of the rice. Smoked paprika, in particular, adds depth and a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. When selecting paprika, opt for high-quality varieties for better flavor. If you prefer a milder version, regular paprika can work, but it won't provide the same smokiness. I personally recommend experimenting with a small amount of both to find your perfect balance.

Incorporating paprika at the right time is essential for maximizing its flavor. By tossing the sweet potatoes with olive oil and spices before roasting, you allow the smokiness to infuse during the cooking process. This method not only deepens the flavor but helps the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness and providing a wonderful contrast to the slightly nutty rice.

Perfecting Rice Cooking Techniques

Cooking rice perfectly requires attention to the right water-to-rice ratio and heat application. For long-grain rice, a ratio of 2 cups of vegetable broth to 1 cup of rice works well. Always bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the rice; once added, reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow it to simmer without lifting the lid. This ensures even cooking and helps create tender, fluffy grains without becoming sticky.

If you find your rice often ends up mushy, it might be due to overcooking or using too much liquid. Keep an eye on your timer and check for doneness around the 15-minute mark. The rice should be tender yet firm to the bite. If the rice appears undercooked but the liquid is gone, add a splash more broth and let it simmer for an additional few minutes.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to ensure moisture and prevent drying out. Microwave or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

For serving, consider pairing this rice with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or fish. It also works well as a base for a grain bowl topped with fresh vegetables or a drizzle of tahini sauce. You can add additional spices like cumin or coriander for extra warmth and complexity, or garnish with crumbled feta or avocado for additional creaminess.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice and simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Combine and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are done and the rice is cooked, gently mix the two together in the pot. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper when roasting the sweet potatoes. This dish also stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Reheat gently to maintain the texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make this dish gluten-free, ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free as some brands contain additives that could include gluten. You can also replace long-grain rice with quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor profile, though cooking times will vary. Keep an eye on your grains and adjust the liquid accordingly to achieve your desired consistency.

For those who are looking to add a protein component without meat, consider adding lentils during the rice cooking process. Use about 1/3 cup of lentils in the broth to add heartiness. Additionally, feel free to swap out sweet potatoes for other root vegetables like butternut squash or carrots, adjusting the roasting time as needed to ensure even cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with sweet potato dishes is uneven cooking. To mitigate this, make sure your sweet potato pieces are consistently diced—about 1-inch cubes work well to ensure uniform cooking. If you find that some pieces are burnt while others remain firm, try lowering the oven temperature or reducing the roasting time slightly and monitoring closely for that golden caramelization.

Another potential issue is the rice clumping together. To avoid this, once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork rather than stirring vigorously. You can also add a teaspoon of olive oil to the rice after cooking, which helps separate the grains and adds a nice sheen.

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.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.