Easy Hearty Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Stew

What’s Up, Hungry People

Even though the weather would have you think it is still summer, we are already weeks into fall and on our merry way to winter. Despite the heat, I’m in full-blown “soup mode” and am looking for any excuse to whip some up. To convince myself it is really fall, I made a sweet potato stew packed full of autumn flavor.

With juicy pieces of beef steak and tender sweet potatoes, this hearty soup is sure to fill you up. A hint of chili provides just the right amount of heat, while undertones of cinnamon spice evoke the essence of cooler days, truly convincing you there’s a brisk chill in the air.

The longer you let this soup stew, the more developed and delicious the flavors become. I recommend at least four hours in the slow cooker, but I’ve been known to make this stew and leave it roasting overnight, resulting in beef that practically melts in your mouth. This slow cooking process allows each component to release its full potential, creating a symphony of flavors that mesh perfectly. Enjoy this warm, comforting bowl with a slice of buttery cornbread for a satisfying meal.

This recipe is not only a wonderful way to celebrate the season but also a perfect dish to prepare when you need something warming and fulfilling. Ideal for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty, it’s also fantastic for meal prepping as it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Here’s What You Need

• Beef steak: Adds richness and heartiness, main protein source.
• Sweet potato: Provides sweetness and a creamy texture, rich in nutrients.
• Flour: Thickens the stew, giving it a substantial body.
• Carrots: Offer a slight sweetness and enhance the stew’s color.
• Yellow onion: Builds a savory base flavor, essential for depth.
• Cherry tomatoes: Introduce a fresh, acidic balance to the dish.
• Mixed bell peppers: Add color and a mild, sweet flavor.
• Chili powder: Brings a gentle heat to the stew.
• Garam masala: Contributes warm, earthy tones typical of autumn.
• Thyme: Infuses the dish with a subtle, earthy woodland flavor.
• Oregano: Adds a classic herb taste, complements the other spices.
• Beef broth: Deepens the stew’s flavor, forms the liquid base.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the overall richness and adds complexity.
• Garlic broth: Optional for an extra punch of flavor.
• Rosemary: Offers a pine-like, aromatic essence.
• Bay leaves: Provide a subtle depth and complexity.
• Salt & pepper: Season to taste, balances and sharpens flavors.

Let’s Cook

Begin by prepping your steak. If you’re using a tougher cut, cutting it into smaller, bite-sized cubes can help it cook more tenderly. Toss these cubes lightly in flour to ensure they thicken the broth as they cook.

Layering the Flavors

Next, add the chopped sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers into the slow cooker. This medley of vegetables will cook down into a rich, colorful base for your stew.

Seasoning Your Stew

It’s time to season! Sprinkle in the chili powder, garam masala, thyme, and oregano. These spices are perfect for bringing out a heartwarming flavor that’s just right for a chilly evening.

Cooking to Perfection

Pour in the beef broth, chicken broth, and if you like a bit more zest, the garlic broth. Adding a sprig of rosemary and a couple of bay leaves will introduce a fresh, herby dimension to your stew.

Set your slow cooker to high for a quicker cook of 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. If your schedule allows, letting it simmer on low for up to 12 hours will make your beef irresistibly tender.

Sweet Potato Stew Tips

• Choosing the Right Cut of Beef: For the best results, opt for a marbled cut like ribeye or sirloin. These cuts offer more flavor and tend to become exceptionally tender when slow-cooked.
• Flouring the Beef: Tossing your beef cubes in flour not only helps thicken the stew but also creates a light crust that locks in juices. Shake off any excess to prevent clumping.
• Layering Ingredients: Start by adding the harder vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the pot. They take longer to cook and will benefit from being closer to the heat source.
• Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your stew halfway through cooking. This is the perfect time to adjust seasonings, adding more salt or spices as needed. Each spice has a role, so consider what might be needed to balance the flavors.

As the leaves start to turn and the evenings cool down, nothing beats coming home to a warm, hearty bowl of sweet potato stew. This recipe is a simple pleasure, easy enough for weeknight dinners yet flavorful enough to impress at any autumn gathering.

Whether you’re fighting off a chill or simply craving something comforting, this stew satisfies with every spoonful. It’s a perfect dish to prep in the morning and enjoy after a long day. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; feel free to play around with the spices to suit your palate. So grab your slow cooker and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Here’s to a delicious fall filled with all the warmth and comfort this stew has to offer.

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