Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Nutritious Creations

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy days when I want a nourishing meal without much effort. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, wholesome vegetables, and flavorful spices makes for a delightful dish that warms me from the inside out. With just a few minutes of prep, I can set it to cook and enjoy the enticing aroma filling my home. This stew is perfect for meal prep, and it tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for leftovers.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:37:15.648Z

When I first discovered the magic of slow-cooking, I knew I had to try a sweet potato stew. I experimented with various spices and vegetables until I found the perfect balance. The blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of cinnamon brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while providing warmth and depth. Making this stew in the crockpot allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's comforting and fulfilling.

One of my favorite tips is to let the stew sit for a while before serving. This resting time allows the ingredients to soak up each other’s flavors, making the stew even more delicious. I often add a splash of lime juice right before serving for a refreshing contrast. Trust me, your taste buds will be thrilled!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
Rich flavors that develop beautifully in the crockpot

Understanding the Ingredients

Sweet potatoes are the star of this stew, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture once cooked. When selecting sweet potatoes, opt for firm, smooth-skinned ones. The starches in sweet potatoes thicken the stew beautifully as they break down during cooking. Additionally, chickpeas add protein and make the dish heartier, turning this stew from a side to a filling meal. Both ingredients are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, making this stew not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

The other vegetables in the mix, such as carrots and bell peppers, contribute texture and flavor diversity. Carrots add a slight crunch and sweetness, while bell peppers enhance the stew with a vibrant taste and stunning color. If you're looking for variations, you can easily swap out the bell pepper for zucchini or add leafy greens like spinach toward the end of cooking for even more nutrients.

Cooking Tips for Success

It's crucial to properly layer your ingredients in the crockpot to ensure even cooking. Start with the denser vegetables, like sweet potatoes and carrots, at the bottom to allow them to cook through, while lighter ingredients on top absorb moisture and flavor. This technique also helps prevent burning or sticking to the pot’s base. If you're in a hurry, cutting sweet potatoes into smaller, uniform cubes can help them cook faster, ensuring they reach that tender state within the designated time.

Adjusting seasoning after cooking is a key step; salt enhances flavors, but adding it too early can draw moisture out of the vegetables. For a little kick, consider tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of coconut milk can be added at the end for a creamier, more tropical flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious stew:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Combine all the ingredients in your crockpot for a hassle-free meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, chickpeas, carrots, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Mix well.

Season and Add Broth

Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered.

Cook in the Crockpot

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Finish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in lime juice if desired, and serve hot, garnished with cilantro.

Enjoy this hearty stew with your favorite bread or rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the stew. You can also substitute other vegetables like zucchini or green beans based on your preference.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew is ideal for meal prep. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors intensify as the stew sits, making it an excellent leftover option. If you want to freeze it, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to three months and can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.

To reheat, add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the stew thickens too much during storage. This addition helps to bring back its original creamy consistency while warming it through. Always taste it before serving, and adjust the seasonings as necessary since freezing can mute certain flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This stew can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes for a more filling meal. Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a hearty grain base that complements the stew's flavors and adds an extra layer of texture. Alternatively, consider using it as a filling for tacos or burritos, adding some avocados and fresh salsa for a delightful twist.

I love garnishing my stew with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. These additions not only brighten the dish but also enhance the complex flavors. For a bit of crunch, serve with toasted bread or whole grain crackers on the side, making your meal both satisfying and delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or turkey when serving for extra protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can! Cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then allow for natural release.