Savory Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Stew
Warm up on chilly fall and winter evenings with this delightful Savory Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Stew. This comforting dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a medley of spices, vibrant tomatoes, and a surprise twist: creamy peanut butter! Whether you choose to add savory chopped ham or tender chicken, the dish is packed with flavor and nourishment. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this stew is a dish to remember. Serve it on its own or over a bed of rice for a filling meal that is bound to impress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
2 lbs (about 5-6 small, peeled and chopped into bite-sized chunks)
Red Onion
1 medium (peeled and diced)
Low Sodium Chicken Broth
2 cups (liquid)
Diced Tomatoes
1 (14.5 ounce) can (canned)
Ground Cumin
1.5 teaspoons (spice)
Pumpkin Pie Spice
1/2 teaspoon (spice)
Creamy Peanut Butter
1/3 cup (smooth)
Cooked Ham
1 lb (chopped)
Fresh Parsley
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Instructions
1
In the crock pot, combine the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well to incorporate the spices with the tomatoes.
2
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into bite-sized chunks. Add them to the crock pot with the tomato mixture.
3
Peel and finely dice the red onion. Add it to the crock pot, and stir everything together until well mixed.
4
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the crock pot, ensuring the sweet potatoes and onions are submerged.
5
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 4.5 to 5 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the creamy peanut butter until fully blended, and add the chopped ham (or chicken if using). Cover and continue cooking.
7
When ready to serve, sprinkle in the fresh chopped parsley and give the stew a good stir. Enjoy hot!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Stew?
It is a comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a medley of spices, vibrant tomatoes, and a creamy peanut butter twist.
How long does the stew cook in a crock pot?
The stew should be cooked on high for 4.5 to 5 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Can I substitute the ham for another protein?
Yes, you can use tender chopped chicken instead of ham if you prefer.
What kind of peanut butter is recommended?
Creamy peanut butter is recommended to ensure a smooth and well-blended consistency in the stew.
Is this stew considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is described as a nourishing dish packed with flavor and vibrant ingredients like sweet potatoes and tomatoes.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are sweet potatoes, red onion, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, pumpkin pie spice, peanut butter, ham, and fresh parsley.
How should I prepare the sweet potatoes?
The sweet potatoes should be peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks.
Which spices give the stew its unique flavor?
Ground cumin and pumpkin pie spice provide the primary savory and warm flavor profile.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this stew?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the ham or replace it with a plant-based protein.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this stew?
This stew is delicious on its own or can be served over a bed of rice for a more filling meal.
Can this be cooked on the low setting of a slow cooker?
While the recipe specifies high for 4.5-5 hours, it can typically be cooked on low for approximately 8-10 hours.
What can I use if I do not have pumpkin pie spice?
You can use a blend of cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, and nutmeg as a substitute.
What is the purpose of adding peanut butter to the stew?
The peanut butter adds a surprising twist, providing richness, creaminess, and a unique depth of flavor.
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, if you enjoy a bit of extra texture in your stew, chunky peanut butter can be used.
Is this recipe suitable for a family gathering?
Yes, it is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Can I add extra vegetables like spinach or kale?
Yes, you can stir in leafy greens during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
How should I store the leftover stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Is it possible to freeze this sweet potato stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What type of chicken broth should I use?
The recipe suggests using low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level of the dish.
Do the sweet potatoes need to be peeled?
Yes, the instructions specifically call for peeling the sweet potatoes before chopping.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, yams can be used as a substitute, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Why is fresh parsley added at the end?
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish to the cooked stew.
When should I add the ham to the crock pot?
Stir in the chopped ham about 30 minutes before you are ready to serve.
How many sweet potatoes do I need for this recipe?
You will need 2 lbs of sweet potatoes, which is roughly 5-6 small ones.
Is this stew appropriate for fall and winter seasons?
Yes, it is specifically recommended for warming up on chilly fall and winter evenings.
Can this recipe be adapted for a stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot on the stove until the potatoes are tender, following the same order of additions.
What size crock pot is best for this recipe?
A standard 4 to 6 quart slow cooker is ideal for this amount of ingredients.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?
Yes, but use only about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Is this Savory Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Stew gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but always verify your broth and peanut butter labels to be sure.
Does the red onion need to be sautéed before adding?
No, the onion is added raw and finely diced directly into the crock pot where it cooks with the other ingredients.