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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy days when I crave something nutritious yet comforting. The delightful combination of sweet potatoes, vegetables, and spices stews slowly throughout the day, filling my home with an irresistible aroma. It's a true set-it-and-forget-it dish that brings a warm, cozy feeling to the table. Plus, the versatility allows me to experiment with whatever fresh ingredients I have on hand, making every batch unique and delicious. It’s one of my go-to recipes for wholesome family meals!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:19:10.482Z

When I first tried this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, I was blown away by how easy and flavorful it was. I wanted something hearty yet wholesome, and this recipe exceeded my expectations. The sweet potatoes break down beautifully, making the broth creamy without adding any dairy. I discovered that adding a splash of lime juice at the end brightens up the entire dish and enhances the flavors profoundly.

I've made this stew countless times, and each variation brings something new to the table. Sometimes, I toss in different beans or greens based on what I have around. I love that it’s a forgiving recipe; you can add or subtract ingredients based on your preferences. It truly is a warm hug in a bowl!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Richly flavored with spices that warm the soul
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies
Perfectly balanced for a healthy meal anytime

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew plays a significant role in both flavor and nutrition. Sweet potatoes serve as the star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture once cooked. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which contribute to a healthy immune system. Pairing them with high-fiber vegetables like carrots and chickpeas adds a satisfying heartiness, making this stew filling and energizing.

The spices are equally important, infusing the stew with warmth and depth. Ground cumin offers a rich, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes, while smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness, elevating the overall taste experience. Don't hesitate to adjust the spice levels based on your personal preference; a pinch more paprika can add a delightful kick if you're feeling adventurous!

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stew

When using a crockpot for this recipe, it's essential to understand the cooking times for the best results. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, producing a rich, deep stew. If you’re short on time, the high setting for 3-4 hours is a great option, but I recommend monitoring the texture of the sweet potatoes to ensure they don’t become too mushy. A firm, fork-tender finish is ideal.

Stirring the stew halfway through the cooking process can help distribute the spices more evenly and ensure everything is cooking harmoniously. If you notice that some ingredients are sitting on the bottom, that’s a sign to give it a gentle stir. Just be careful not to mash the sweet potatoes too much, keeping a balance between creamy and chunky.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious stew:

Main Ingredients

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

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your tastes!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

In your crockpot, add the diced sweet potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped bell pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic.

Add Spices and Chickpeas

Sprinkle the spices over the vegetables, add the chickpeas, and stir well to combine.

Pour the Broth

Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.

Set the Crockpot

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

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, stir gently, taste for seasoning, and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this hearty stew with your favorite crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For added nutrition, consider throwing in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking. This will not only boost the flavor but also increase the vegetable content of your meal.

Serving Suggestions

This stew can be served as a main dish or a side, making it incredibly versatile for any meal. For a comforting lunch, pair it with crusty bread or whole grain rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, you could serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added protein and texture, transforming it into a hearty dinner option.

If you're looking to elevate your serving presentation, consider garnishing the stew with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. A squeeze of lemon or lime on top can brighten all the flavors and add an excellent touch of zing.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If you've frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring optimal texture and flavor preservation.

For longer storage, this stew freezes well for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some headspace in the container since the stew will expand as it freezes. Upon reheating from frozen, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the stew's consistency and avoid rubbery chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes or any root vegetables you prefer.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well for up to 3 months; just reheat when you're ready to enjoy it.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Try pairing it with whole grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal.