Warm up with this hearty and nutritious Spiced Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew. This dish is packed with bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a satisfying blend of sweet, smoky, and savory notes. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving comfort food, this one-pot stew is easy to make and ideal for meal prepping. With its vibrant colors and robust flavors, it’s a delicious, plant-based option that everyone will love!

Ingredients

For the Stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
• 1 handful fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled tortilla chips

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Spices and Sweet Potato
   • Add the sweet potato and red bell pepper to the pot. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, chili powder, and cinnamon. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices and coat the vegetables.
3. Simmer the Stew
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally.
4. Add the Corn and Greens
   • Stir in the corn and spinach or kale (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the corn is heated through.
5. Season and Serve
   • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
   • Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, or crumbled tortilla chips, if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve the stew hot with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a richer finish.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Variations

1. Spicier Stew:
   • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
2. Protein Boost:
   • Add a cup of cooked quinoa or lentils for more protein and texture.
3. Creamy Version:
   • Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk or heavy cream for a velvety texture.
4. Mexican-Inspired Stew:
   • Add ½ teaspoon of oregano and a splash of lime juice. Top with crumbled queso fresco.
5. Slow Cooker Option:
   • Combine all ingredients (except the corn and greens) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the corn and greens in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Spiced Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Its rich, spiced broth, tender sweet potatoes, and hearty black beans make it a comforting dish for any season. With easy customization options and simple preparation, this stew is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a wholesome family dinner.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time since canned sweet potatoes are pre-cooked.

2. How can I make this stew thicker?
Mash a portion of the sweet potatoes or beans with a fork and stir back into the stew.

3. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef can be added for a heartier option.

4. What other beans can I use?
Pinto beans or kidney beans make great substitutes for black beans.

5. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, the flavors improve as the stew sits. Prepare it a day ahead and reheat before serving.

Enjoy the comforting warmth and bold flavors of this hearty stew—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection! 🥣✨