Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes with their juice; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy days when I crave something hearty yet wholesome. The best part? I can throw all the ingredients into my slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, I have a flavorful stew that warms me from the inside out. The combination of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a hint of warmth from the spices creates a comforting dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies I have on hand!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:49:05.653Z

When I first experimented with this stew, I knew I wanted to highlight the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while adding layers of flavor. I decided to include canned tomatoes and chickpeas for a bit of heartiness, making it not only filling but also rich in nutrients. The slow cooking process really allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

One tip I found invaluable is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot, as this enhances their flavors significantly. Trust me, taking that extra little step makes a world of difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables
Comforting, hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings
Easily customizable with your favorite spices or added proteins

      

Ingredient Insights

The sweet potatoes in this stew are not only the star ingredient but also provide a natural sweetness that balances the spices. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin and avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes. This ensures a creamy texture after cooking. You can experiment with Yukon gold or purple sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile and a fun twist on the traditional orange variety.

Chickpeas contribute protein and fiber, making this dish filling and nutritious. Using canned chickpeas saves time, but if you prefer to use dried, soak them overnight and cook them separately to ensure they are tender before adding to the stew. This slow cooker recipe is forgiving, but adding raw chickpeas directly could result in a grainy texture if they don’t cook through.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot is crucial for layering flavors. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant—this typically takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. This extra step unlocks their natural sweetness and reduces the raw taste, enhancing the overall depth of the stew when it finishes cooking.

When cooking this stew on low, the flavors have plenty of time to meld together, usually around 4-6 hours. If you’re short on time, setting the slow cooker to high for about 2-3 hours can work too. Just keep an eye on the sweet potatoes; if they seem to fall apart, your stew may be on the higher end of the cooking time. Adding kale in the last 20 minutes helps retain its vibrant color and nutritional value, making sure it doesn’t overcook and lose its bright flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew is incredibly versatile! For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey in the last hour of cooking, or serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt to enhance creaminess. For a heartier meal, pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad featuring seasonal greens to create a well-rounded dinner.

Leftovers are amazing and can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. The stew also freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth if it appears too thick. This dish improves in flavor as it sits, so it’s a great option for meal prep or making ahead for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes with their juice
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup kale, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil until softened. This should take about 5 minutes.

Combine in the Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the crockpot. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the sweet potatoes are tender. If using, add the kale during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, give the stew a good stir and serve in bowls. Enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to add in other spices such as coriander or a splash of hot sauce to give this stew a little kick!

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Zucchini or bell peppers can add additional color and texture, while green beans can offer a nice crunch. Make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

For a vegan protein option, tempeh or tofu can work well. Cube the tempeh and sauté it alongside the onions and garlic for added flavor. When using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture and cube it before adding it to the pot. This allows it to absorb more flavors from the stew.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your stew is too watery, you can thicken it by mashing some of the sweet potatoes against the side of the crockpot with a wooden spoon to create a creamier consistency. Alternatively, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavors.

Conversely, if the stew is on the thicker side, a little extra vegetable broth can be stirred in while heating it up, making it easier to serve. Maintaining balance between the vegetables and liquid is key, so always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to get that perfectly rich flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing ingredients the night before can save you time in the morning. Chop the sweet potatoes, onions, and garlic and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can throw everything into the crockpot right away, even before your morning coffee kicks in!

You can also pre-assemble the entire stew in your crockpot insert, cover it, and store it in the fridge overnight. Just be sure not to keep it in the slow cooker base. In the morning, simply place it back on the base and set it to cook before you head out for the day. It's the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the stew for an extra kick.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa for a more filling meal.

→ Can I substitute sweet potatoes with another vegetable?

Yes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives, but remember to adjust cooking times.