Description
A hearty and flavorful Spiced Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew that’s perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal. This stew combines tender sweet potatoes, protein-rich black beans, and a medley of spices simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable broth, delivering warmth and nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 1/2 cups canned diced tomatoes
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, preparing the base for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes and diced bell pepper. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), coating the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth, canned diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the stew simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add black beans: Stir in the cooked black beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season to taste: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can use canned or freshly cooked black beans for convenience.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it completely for a milder stew.
- This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a filling meal.
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken or turkey if not vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
