Winning Cook-off Recipe #1 - Sweet Potato Chili

This recipe, prepared by Brooke Fiore, won in the 'most original/unique chili' category. Brooke says she makes it often at home, and makes little tweaks each time, but this is the basic recipe, which came from the cookbook "Chili! Mouthwatering, Meatless Recipes" by Robert Oser.

Sweet Potato Chili

1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
4 tomatoes, chopped
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1/4 cup barbeque sauce
1 dried chipotle chili, crushed
2 tablespoons blended chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups cooked black eyed peas
1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
vegetable stock or water, to cover
salt and pepper, to taste
minced fresh parsley and/or cilantro, to garnish

Combine all ingredients (except garnishes) in a large pot and bring to a slow boil, covered, over medium-high heat. Uncover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring often.