South Sudan Sweet Potato, Spinach, and Peanut Stew
A hearty and nutritious vegetarian stew featuring the sweetness of sweet potatoes, the earthiness of spinach, and the richness of peanut butter, creating a comforting and flavorful South Sudanese dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(crushed)
- 2 Tbsp Tomato paste
- 100 g Spinach(shredded (fresh or frozen))
- 120 g Peanut butter(smooth, unsweetened preferred)
- 500 ml Vegetable stock(hot)
- 2 Tbsp Olive oil
- 1.5 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Crushed red pepper(optional, for heat)
- to taste Salt
- as needed Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden.
- 2
Add the crushed garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and crushed red pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 4
Add the diced sweet potatoes, hot vegetable stock, and enough water to almost cover the sweet potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- 5
Stir in the shredded spinach and peanut butter. Continue to cook, stirring until the spinach wilts and the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the stew has thickened.
- 6
Season with salt to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little more water or vegetable stock to reach your desired consistency.
- 7
Serve hot, perhaps with rice or a side of flatbread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother stew, you can blend a portion of it before adding the spinach.
- ✓Use unsweetened peanut butter for a more authentic flavor profile.
- ✓Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to control the level of spiciness.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers along with the sweet potatoes.
- For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked chicken or beef.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro before serving.