There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting stew to warm you up on a chilly evening. This Crockpot Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew is the perfect meal for cozy nights in. Made with wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, and a medley of spices, this stew offers a comforting blend of flavors that will have your taste buds singing. It’s also incredibly easy to throw together and lets your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your family.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale and cover again to allow it to wilt.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Variation
- Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Include 1 teaspoon of curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist.
- Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a different green option.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure to rinse the lentils well to remove any debris.
- For a thicker stew, remove the lid in the last hour of cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or a side of warm naan.
- Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for added richness.
- Pair with a light, green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before placing them in the crockpot.
- Make sure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor outcome.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6-8 hours
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red lentils instead?
Red lentils will become mushier, but can still be used if that’s your preference. - Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional, but it can improve the texture of the stew. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this stew freezes well for up to 3 months. - How can I add more protein?
You can add chickpeas or tofu for additional protein.
Conclusion
Embrace the coziness of this Crockpot Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew and enjoy its delightful flavors and nutritional benefits. Perfect for a family meal or an intimate dinner, this vegan stew is truly a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients. As simple as it is satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or someone who just loves a comforting meal, this stew is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every nourishing spoonful!
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Crockpot Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew
- Total Time: 6-8 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting stew to warm you up on a chilly evening. This Crockpot Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew is the perfect meal for cozy nights in. Made with wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, and a medley of spices, this stew offers a comforting blend of flavors that will have your taste buds singing. It’s also incredibly easy to throw together and lets your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your family.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale and cover again to allow it to wilt.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- This dish can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 11 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: crockpot, sweet potato, lentil stew, vegan, slow cooker