How to Make Turkish Sweet Potato and Vegetable Stew

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, and one such dish that exemplifies this is the Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this stew is perfect for a hearty meal. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew at home.

Ingredients

To make a delightful Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew, gather the following ingredients:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the diced sweet potatoes, carrots, red and green bell peppers, and green beans into the pot. Sauté the mixture for around 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add the Chickpeas

Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the chickpeas and let the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat them through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the stew from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. This Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Tips for the Best Stew

Feel free to customize the stew with your choice of vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the sweet potatoes against the side of the pot.
This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome goodness of this Turkish sweet potato and vegetable stew. It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience for your taste buds!