| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 325 | 7g | 1g | 58g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 13g | 11g | 9g | 0.88g |
Why I Love American Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew with Kale
Just like the vibrant culture in Texas, where I spent my most formative culinary years, I’ve grown to love and appreciate the mingling of diverse flavors in a meal. The Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew with Kale is one such recipe that brings a harmony of flavors to the palate while being healthful and hearty at the same time. This dish that seems simple at first glance, but it’s complex and wholehearted just like the Southern culinary tradition I deeply admire.
The Inspiration
While I can not refer to a specific chef for inspiring this particular stew, it certainly bears the influence of my Texan roots, combined with a little inspiration from the comforting bowls of vegetable stews consumed during my travels all over America. I seek to introduce traditional recipes with an interesting spin, in ways that resonate with the modern palate. This delicious kale-infused stew is a brilliant example. I believe, as Chef’s Table Farm would agree, food should be resourceful and innovative, just like art.
Complementing with Staples
The Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew with Kale, in its heart, is a celebration of vegetables. That’s the beauty of this recipe. It goes well with a variety of dishes like a simple roast chicken or grilled fish. Pair it with a glass of crisp, white wine if you fancy. These additions would highlight the dish’s savory depth with a contrasting texture or a refreshing twist. If you enjoy a good old Southern cornbread, this stew will pair just as beautifully, making it reminiscent of a soul-warming Southern supper.
Dictionary defines ‘Gourmet’ as involving or purporting to involve high-quality or exotic ingredients and skilled preparation. But to me, gourmet isn’t an ingredient or a technique. It’s the love that goes into the preparation and the joy of sharing something heartwarming and comforting. I hope this recipe of Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew with Kale brings you as much joy as it brings me. And whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious novice, remember to approach every meal with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a hearty appetite.
What You’ll Need
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15-ounce) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 bunches of fresh kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5-ounce) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Method
Step One
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook these until the onion becomes translucent, typically taking around five minutes.
Step Two
Next, add 1 can of drained and rinsed chickpeas, the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Add in your spices including 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything in the pot until it’s well combined.
Step Three
Cover the pot and let is simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Continue simmering until the sweet potatoes have become tender and can be easily pierced through with a fork.
Step Four
After the sweet potatoes have softened, add in the chopped kale leaves. Stir the stew until the kale bundles have reduced in size and fully submerged into the stew. Allow this to cook for 5 more minutes, or until the kale has become wilted and tender.
Step Five
Once the kale is cooked, remove the stew from the heat. Feel free to adjust any seasonings to taste, adding more salt or pepper if necessary. Your sweet potato and chickpea stew is now ready to serve hot. This filling stew makes for a hearty, nutritious meal especially during the colder months!
