Discover the vibrant flavors of Africa right in your kitchen with Samantha's Sweet Potato Stew! This hearty and wholesome dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and a medley of spices, this stew promises to transport you to a world of culinary delight. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a deliciously satisfying meal that serves six. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: African
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing, peeling, and chopping sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Measure out spices and have other ingredients ready.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
- Sprinkle cumin and coriander into the pot, stirring to coat the vegetables and release their aromatic oils. Cook for another minute.
- Add diced sweet potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the spiced vegetables.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts into the stew.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and stew to slightly thicken.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare your vegetables in advance. Chop the sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, and bell pepper the night before, and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Experiment with Greens: While spinach adds a lovely color and nutrition, feel free to substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer for a little longer can enhance the flavors even more. Just be sure to check the sweet potatoes for tenderness.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or add a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
- Make It a Meal: Serve the stew over rice or quinoa for a complete meal that will keep you full and satisfied.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
