I first tried Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew when I was looking for a hearty, healthy dish that could also pack in a punch of flavor. I’d always loved sweet potatoes but had never really thought of them in a savory stew with peanuts. I remember the moment I took my first bite: the sweet earthiness of the potatoes blended perfectly with the nutty depth of the peanuts, and it was one of those ’I can’t believe I haven”t made this sooner”! moments. It was comforting, yet vibrant, and immediately became a staple in my weekly meal rotation.
This recipe is one of those dishes you’ll make on repeat. It’s full of nourishing ingredients, takes little time to prepare, and can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals, want something filling on a cold night, or just want a comforting bowl of stew, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew is a celebration of bold flavors, simplicity, and good ingredients. It’s one of those dishes that make you feel good after every spoonful. What stands out to me is how versatile it is. The hearty sweet potatoes and savory peanut butter (or peanuts) make a rich base, while the spices bring it all together with warmth and complexity.
This recipe feels like a cozy hug. Sweet potatoes bring their natural sweetness and depth, peanuts provide richness, and spices like cumin and coriander make every bite a little exciting.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients are simple, but together, they create a stew that’s anything but basic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and diced.
- 1 onion: Diced (yellow or red works best).
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes: Gives the stew some acidity and freshness.
- 1 can of coconut milk: Adds richness and a silky texture to the stew.
- 1/2 cup of peanut butter: For a creamy, nutty flavor. You can also use chopped peanuts for texture.
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil: For sautéing the onion.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Minced, adding a nice depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon of ground ginger: Adds warmth and a slight zing.
- 1 tablespoon of ground cumin: Brings earthy and slightly smoky flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, warm note.
- 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (optional): For a little heat.
- 2 cups of vegetable stock: For a base liquid.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew
Making this stew is incredibly straightforward. There’s no complicated technique, just some simple steps that let the ingredients shine. Here’s how I go about it:
- Prepare the Veggies: Start by peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and get the spices ready.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook it until soft and golden (about 5-7 minutes). Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, and coriander, and cook for another minute, letting the spices bloom.
- Add the Sweet Potatoes: Toss the diced sweet potatoes into the pot. Stir to coat them with the spices and aromatics. It will smell amazing.
- Build the Stew: Pour in the vegetable stock and chopped tomatoes, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add the Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter and coconut milk. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes until the stew becomes creamy and the flavors meld.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the salt, pepper, or chili flakes if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy it with some crusty bread or a side of rice. It’s perfect as a main dish, but you can also serve it as a side.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Each ingredient in Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew serves a specific purpose. Understanding how they work together will give you a deeper appreciation for the recipe.
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in complex carbohydrates and beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A), sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re naturally sweet, which balances the heat and richness from the peanuts and spices.
- Peanut Butter: Peanuts contain healthy fats and protein, making the stew both filling and creamy. The natural oils in the peanut butter emulsify with the coconut milk to give the stew its smooth, rich texture.
- Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess without using dairy, and its subtle sweetness complements the heat and spices. It’s also rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digestible fats that give you a quick energy boost.
- Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Ginger): These spices not only add flavor but also bring health benefits. Cumin aids digestion, coriander helps with inflammation, and ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Garlic and Onion: They provide depth of flavor, but also bring immune-boosting properties. Garlic contains allicin, which has antibacterial properties, while onions are rich in antioxidants.
Expert Tips
- Spice Control: If you like your stew on the milder side, start with a smaller amount of chili flakes and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to tone down spice once it’s in.
- Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
- Texture Tweaks: If you prefer a chunkier stew, reduce the amount of coconut milk or mash a portion of the sweet potatoes to thicken it up. For a smoother texture, blend part of the stew with an immersion blender.
- Use Fresh Peanuts: If you’re using whole peanuts, toast them lightly in a dry pan before adding them in. This enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are a few variations I’ve tried over time:
- Add Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, or collard greens would work great here. Add them towards the end of cooking to wilt them into the stew.
- Top with Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt on top can cut through the richness and add a tangy element. You can also try using a dairy-free yogurt if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
- Make it a Protein Powerhouse: Add chickpeas or lentils to boost the protein content of the stew. These legumes also soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Try Different Nuts: If peanuts aren’t your thing, cashews or almonds could work just as well for the nutty, creamy element.
Final Words
This stew is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying. It’s comforting, nutritious, and adaptable. Whether you’re looking to switch up your weeknight dinners or need a comforting dish for a chilly day, this recipe will hit the spot. And as with any stew, it only gets better with time!
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew So Unique?
The combination of sweet potatoes and peanuts creates a rich and comforting stew with a perfect balance of sweetness and savoriness.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew Ahead Of Time?
Yes, this stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew Vegan?
Yes, it’s completely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness.