Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups kale, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy weekdays. The best part is how the flavors meld together as it simmers all day, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma. Lightly seasoned vegetables and tender sweet potatoes create a hearty meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly delicious. In just a few minutes of prep, I can set it and forget it, knowing that I’ll have a wholesome dinner waiting for me after a long day. It’s simply one of my favorite comfort foods.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:19:08.620Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a delicious dish. The combination of sweet potatoes, carrots, and chickpeas packs in nutrients while the spices bring everything to life. I learned quickly that letting it cook longer allows the flavors to deepen, so I often set it in the morning and return home to a satisfying meal waiting for me.

Using vegetable broth and fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also makes it far healthier than your typical stew. I love adding a splash of lime juice just before serving; it really brightens up the dish. Trust me, this stew is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.

        Reasons to Love This Stew
        Packed with nutrients and antioxidants from sweet potatoes and kale.
Effortless one-pot meal that cooks itself while you go about your day.
Comforting warmth that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

      

The Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this stew, providing a rich source of vitamins A and C, along with fiber. Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the stew, creating a harmonious taste experience. When diced, they cook evenly, releasing their creaminess as they soften, which helps to naturally thicken the stew's broth. To ensure even cooking, make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, about 1-inch in size, allowing them to become tender but not mushy.

In this recipe, sweet potatoes also add a lovely color to the dish, making it visually appealing. As they cook down, they not only contribute to the stew's texture but also infuse the broth with their mildly sweet flavor, making it more satisfying. For a variation, consider adding purple sweet potatoes for additional color and nutrients, as they have a similar texture and cooking time.

Perfectly Seasoning Your Stew

Seasoning plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of this stew. The combination of cumin and smoked paprika provides a warm depth that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. To deepen the flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step can elevate the dish by bringing out their natural sweetness and reducing the raw edge of the onion.

If you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices such as coriander or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. As always, be sure to taste the stew before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference. Each individual’s palate varies, and a careful adjustment of seasoning will make a world of difference in the final taste.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weekends. You can prepare the vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just remember to add the kale and lime juice in the final 30 minutes to keep them vibrant and fresh. If you prefer to freeze the stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers, where it can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave until heated through. If the stew thickens too much after refrigeration, add some vegetable broth to loosen it up. The flavor of the stew often deepens after a day or two, making leftovers even more delicious! This recipe serves well with crusty bread or over a scoop of cooked grains, offering simple yet satisfying meal options.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and wholesome ingredients to make your stew:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups kale, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime

These ingredients will make a wholesome and filling stew.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, onion, carrots, and red bell pepper. Mix in the chickpeas, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add to the Crockpot

Transfer the vegetable mixture to the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Finish with Kale and Lime

About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the chopped kale. Just before serving, stir in the lime juice for a fresh flavor boost.

Your Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, you can blend a portion of the stew before serving, or simply top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, consider serving it in individual bowls topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices for creaminess. A garnish of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall dish. This not only makes the meal look appealing but adds extra layers of flavor that can balance the spices beautifully.

For a complete meal, pair this stew with a side of whole grain bread or a crisp salad. The freshness of a salad can contrast nicely with the warm, comforting flavors of the stew. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious broth, creating a more filling dish.

Variations and Adaptations

This recipe is easily adaptable based on personal taste and dietary needs. Swap out chickpeas for other beans like black beans or lentils for a different protein source. If you prefer a meatier option, adding cooked chicken or turkey seasoned with herbs can make the stew even heartier. Just make sure to adjust cooking times and ensure any meat included is properly cooked before serving.

For a tropical twist, you can incorporate diced mango or pineapple into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The sweetness of the fruit will complement the vegetables while adding a unique flavor. You can also explore different leafy greens; spinach can be substituted for kale, but add it in only during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant color.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you notice your stew is too thick after cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. It can also be helpful to let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving, as it allows the flavors to meld and can adjust the thickness as well. If you've added too much liquid initially, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry mixed with a bit of cold water, cooking it on high for a short time until it reaches your preferred texture.

On the other hand, if the sweet potatoes remain too firm after cooking, consider chopping them smaller next time or cooking on high heat for a longer duration. Instantaneous tasting midway can guide you on whether to adjust cooking time based on preferences for tenderness. Remember, every slow cooker is slightly different in temperature, and finding the perfect timing for your machine is key.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes wonderfully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it perfect for vegan diets.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even spinach.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick!