A few years ago, I stumbled upon a recipe that changed my weeknight dinners forever-Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew. I was initially skeptical. Sweet potatoes and peanut butter? It seemed like an odd combo. But that first bite? It was like an explosion of flavor that I couldn’t forget. The creamy sweetness of the potatoes paired with the nutty richness of peanuts made it feel comforting and exotic at the same time. If you’re someone who loves food that’s both simple and surprisingly flavorful, this stew will become a new favorite.
I started making this stew on repeat, and each time I tweaked it a little-adding more spices or using different types of greens. It’s a versatile dish that works with almost any tweak you throw at it. So, let’s dive in and break down what makes this stew a winner.
Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew Recipe
This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a nutritious, hearty meal. What makes Jamie’s version stand out is the combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The sweet potatoes provide a soft, creamy base while the peanuts give a delightful crunch, balancing out the smooth texture. It’s a stew you can’t stop scooping up, and it gets even better the next day when the flavors meld.
The first time I made this, I followed the recipe to the letter. As the stew simmered, the kitchen filled with the fragrance of garlic, ginger, and cumin. And that moment when the peanut butter was stirred in-pure magic. It was like everything clicked.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you need for this delicious stew:
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Sweet Potatoes (2-3 Large)
- These act as the base of the dish. They break down into a velvety texture, absorbing all the flavors.
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Peanut Butter (1/2 Cup)
- The heart of the stew. Choose natural peanut butter without added sugar for the best flavor.
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Coconut Milk (1 Can)
- Adds creaminess and balances out the spiciness.
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Chopped Tomatoes (1 Can)
- For a tangy and slightly acidic bite that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
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Red Onion (1 Large)
- Adds a mild sweetness and depth when cooked down.
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Garlic (4 Cloves)
- You can never have enough garlic. It infuses the stew with an aromatic base.
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Fresh Ginger (1-inch Piece)
- A zingy kick that cuts through the sweetness of the potatoes and peanut butter.
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Vegetable Stock (4 Cups)
- Helps to thin out the stew while adding flavor.
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Ground Cumin (1 Tsp)
- The warm, earthy taste of cumin adds that comforting, cozy vibe to the dish.
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Chili Flakes (optional)
- For those who like a little heat, chili flakes will add just the right amount of spice.
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Greens (Spinach, Kale, Or Collard Greens)
- Optional but recommended. They add color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
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Lime (for Garnish)
- Fresh lime juice adds a tangy zing to balance out the richness of the stew.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew
The best part? This stew is pretty easy to make, but it’s packed with flavor. Here’s how to go about it:
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Prepare Your Ingredients
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger. If you’re using greens, give them a rough chop.
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Cook The Aromatics
- Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens. Toss in the garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
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Add The Spices
- Stir in cumin and chili flakes (if using). The heat from the oil will release the oils from the spices, making them aromatic.
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Incorporate The Main Ingredients
- Add the chopped sweet potatoes and stir them around, letting them take on the flavor of the onions and spices.
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Simmer The Stew
- Pour in the vegetable stock, chopped tomatoes, and coconut milk. Stir everything together. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 20-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
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Finish With Peanut Butter
- Once the potatoes are soft, add the peanut butter and stir until fully incorporated. The stew will turn velvety and rich.
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Add Greens
- If you’re adding greens, now’s the time. Throw in a handful of spinach or kale and cook for a few minutes until wilted.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste for seasoning. Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to balance out the sweetness.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
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Sweet Potatoes
They’re loaded with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. This helps boost your immune system and gives your skin that healthy glow. Plus, they’re a great source of fiber, which aids digestion.
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Peanut Butter
Rich in healthy fats and protein, peanut butter brings both flavor and satiety. The fats help carry the flavors of the spices and other ingredients, making the dish more satisfying.
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Coconut Milk
It’s high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a healthy fat that’s quickly used by your body for energy. It adds a creamy texture that’s perfect for balancing the stew’s spices and heat.
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Cumin
Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cumin also aids digestion and adds a depth of flavor that’s both earthy and warm.
Expert Tips
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Prep In Advance
- Chop all your vegetables the night before. It cuts down on cooking time when you’re ready to make the stew.
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Adjust The Thickness
- If you want a thicker stew, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. For a soupier version, add more stock or water.
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Use Crunchy Toppings
- Top the stew with crushed peanuts or toasted seeds for added texture. A dollop of yogurt also balances the spiciness and adds creaminess.
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Flavor Enhancements
- For a deeper flavor, roast the sweet potatoes before adding them to the stew. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their sweetness.
Recipe Variations
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Spicy Tofu And Peanut Stew
Swap out the sweet potatoes for tofu for a plant-based protein boost. Pan-fry the tofu first to get a crispy texture, and add it into the stew at the end.
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Add Roasted Vegetables
Throw in some roasted carrots, cauliflower, or butternut squash. The caramelized edges add a different layer of flavor.
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Peanut And Lentil Stew
If you want a heartier, protein-packed version, add cooked lentils. They pair wonderfully with the peanut butter and make the stew even more filling.
Final Words
Jamie’s Sweet Potato and Peanut Stew is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s one of those dishes that combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re making it on a cold night or prepping it for a week’s worth of lunches, it’s a dish that never gets old.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew?
You’ll need sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, peanut butter, tomatoes, vegetable stock, and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and chili.
Can I Make This Stew Ahead Of Time?
Yes! The stew actually tastes better after sitting for a day or two. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Potato And Peanut Stew Suitable For Vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients and no animal products.