Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

The moment I first tasted Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew, I knew I had discovered something special. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma of the stew wafted through the kitchen, wrapping me in warmth and comfort. The rich blend of flavors, with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the nuttiness of peanut butter, created a delightful symphony that I couldn’t resist. This dish has become a personal favorite, perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

As a vegetarian, I am always on the lookout for hearty meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. This vegetarian stew ticks all the boxes: it’s packed with vegetables, is bursting with flavor, and is completely comforting. The first time I made it for friends, they couldn’t believe how filling and delicious it was without any meat! It’s versatile, too; you can enjoy it with brown rice, or even on its own, and still feel like you’re indulging.

What I love most about this stew is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a warming dish that’s perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy dinner on a weeknight. You’ll find that it’s not just a meal, but an experience. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the magic of making Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew.

What Goes Into Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

When it comes to creating the perfect Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew, the quality and choice of ingredients matter. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture in the dish. The key players in this recipe are the sweet potatoes, which provide natural sweetness and heartiness, along with peanut butter, which adds richness and creaminess.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat for sautéing the onions and garlic, bringing out their flavors.
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced, about 2 cups): Adds a sweet, aromatic base.
• 3 medium cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the stew with a savory depth.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, nutty note.
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth: The base of the stew, making it rich and flavorful.
• 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes: Brings acidity and sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced, about 2 cups): The star of the dish, adding sweetness and texture.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: A zesty addition that complements the sweet potatoes.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground red cayenne pepper: For a little heat, adjust to your taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Balances the overall seasoning.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds richness and depth.
• 4 cups packed fresh baby spinach: A nutritious boost at the end of cooking.
• 2 cups cooked brown rice: A hearty side to serve with the stew.
• Fresh cilantro: For garnish, adding freshness and color.
• Chopped salted peanuts: A crunchy topping for added texture.

Making Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life! Making Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew is straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. Let’s get cooking!

1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender. This will serve as a perfect base for the stew.
2. While the rice cooks, set a medium soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the crushed tomatoes, diced sweet potatoes, minced ginger, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Stir in the peanut butter and fresh baby spinach. The stew is finished when the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the spinach has wilted, which takes about 2 minutes.
7. Take a moment to taste the stew and adjust seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
8. To serve, scoop a generous portion of the cooked brown rice into bowls and ladle the rich stew on top.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chopped salted peanuts for that perfect crunch!

Making Adjustments

Making adjustments to the Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew can elevate this dish even further! Here are some tips to consider:

• Spice Variations: If you like it spicy, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for more color and flavor.
• Protein Boost: For those who want a protein-packed dish, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They blend well with the other ingredients.
• Cooking Method: This recipe can be adapted for the slow cooker. Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
• Garnishes: Get creative with garnishes! Try adding a swirl of coconut cream or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to your serving.
• Herb Substitutions: Instead of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note.

Perfect Pairings for Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

Serving your Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew can be as creative as the cooking process! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Crispy Bread: Serve the stew with a warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.
• Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this rich stew, adding a refreshing contrast.
• Seasonal Roots: Consider pairing it with roasted seasonal vegetables, like brussels sprouts or carrots, to complement the stew.
• Comforting Sides: This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it also makes a great meal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Garnishing Options: Top with extra peanuts and cilantro to elevate the presentation and add additional flavor.
• Ideal Occasions: Great for cozy evenings at home or family dinners, this stew is also perfect for serving on holidays like Thanksgiving.
• Make-Ahead: The stew can easily be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, the Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of peanut butter. It’s satisfying, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. I highly encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create such a delicious and comforting dish. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite of this incredible stew!

Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew

The ultimate comfort food, Vegetarian Sweet Potato Peanut Stew combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy peanut butter for a nourishing meal. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this stew is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Make it tonight for a dish your friends and family will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced, about 2 cups)
• 3 medium cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and diced, about 2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground red cayenne pepper (plus or minus to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (+ more to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (+ more to taste)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups packed fresh baby spinach
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• Fresh cilantro
• Chopped salted peanuts

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender. This will serve as a perfect base for the stew.
2. While the rice cooks, set a medium soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the pot. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the crushed tomatoes, diced sweet potatoes, minced ginger, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Stir in the peanut butter and fresh baby spinach. The stew is finished when the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the spinach has wilted, which takes about 2 minutes.
7. Take a moment to taste the stew and adjust seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
8. To serve, scoop a generous portion of the cooked brown rice into bowls and ladle the rich stew on top.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chopped salted peanuts for that perfect crunch!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Tip 2: This stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Tip 3: For a protein boost, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas.
• Tip 4: Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
• Tip 5: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

Previous PostPumpkin Cake

Next Post Lemon Cupcakes

Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.