It all started on a rainy Thursday in October. The kind of day when the gray sky feels endless and all you want is something warm, comforting, and nourishing. I was home alone, the kids were at school, and I was craving something cozy—something that would warm me from the inside out.
I found a lonely sweet potato, a jar of red lentils, and a bunch of warming spices tucked in the back of the pantry. I didn’t follow a recipe—I just listened to my gut (and my nose). And what came out of the pot an hour later was magical: this spiced lentil & sweet potato stew.
Now, it’s a weeknight favorite in our house. It’s simple, vegan, packed with nutrients, and somehow tastes better with every bite. If you need a hug in a bowl, this is it.
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew 💛
🌱 Hearty and Plant-Based
Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant veggies, and wholesome goodness—no meat needed.
🧡 Naturally Creamy Without Cream
Sweet potatoes break down just enough to create a velvety texture. Lentils thicken the broth beautifully.
🌶️ Loaded With Flavorful Spices
A blend of cumin, turmeric, garlic, and ginger gives it depth, warmth, and an anti-inflammatory kick.
🥄 Perfect for Meal Prep
It reheats so well. Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.
Ingredient Highlights Without the List 😉
The key players in this stew are red lentils and sweet potatoes. Red lentils cook fast and melt into the broth, creating a thick, rich texture. Sweet potatoes add sweetness and body, balancing the warm spices.
Speaking of spices, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and ginger bring that signature earthy, golden flavor. Garlic and onion build the base, while vegetable broth ties it all together.
Want it creamier? Stir in a spoonful of coconut milk. Need heat? A pinch of cayenne does the trick. This stew is endlessly flexible.
What You’ll Need in the Kitchen 🛠️
You won’t need much—just:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A cutting board + knife
- A wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring spoons for those lovely spices
- And your favorite cozy bowl for serving
How to Store, Reheat & Freeze It ❄️
- Fridge: Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container. The flavor gets even better overnight!
- Reheat: Gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth.
- Freezer: Yes! Freeze portions in containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Pro Tip: Store some cooked rice or quinoa alongside to make weeknight reheating a breeze.
Tasty Variations to Make It Your Own
🥬 Add Greens: Spinach, kale, or collard greens stirred in at the end bring color and nutrients.
🥥 Go Creamy: Add coconut milk for richness and a silky finish.
🍋 Finish With Freshness: A squeeze of lemon or lime at the end lifts everything.
🥕 More Veggies: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers all play well in this pot.
Delicious Pairings & Serving Ideas 🍞
I love this stew solo, but here are a few favorite sides:
- Flatbread or Naan: Perfect for soaking up every last spoonful
- Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier bowl that really sticks with you
- Simple Cucumber Salad: To add crunch and balance the warmth
- Toasted Sourdough: Because stew and bread are just meant to be
Other Recipes to Keep You Warm 🔗
8 Spices That Instantly Boost Any Dish 🌐
Want to know how to use spices that instantly enhance any dish?
Check out this article on my blog.
Your Turn to Stir the Pot! 📣
Tried this stew? Added your own twist?
Tell me in the comments or tag @cookingwithmagali on Instagram so I can see your creation. This stew has warmed so many bellies in our home—I hope it does the same for yours. 🧡🥣
FAQ – Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew ❓
- What makes lentil and sweet potato stew so filling?
The combo of fiber-rich lentils and starchy sweet potatoes makes it super satisfying. - Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red?
Yes, but they take longer to cook and won’t be as creamy. - Is this stew gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just double-check your broth ingredients. - Can I make this stew in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté first, then pressure cook for about 10 minutes. - How do I make this stew spicier?
Add cayenne, fresh chili, or chili flakes to taste. - Is this stew vegan and dairy-free?
Yes, it’s 100% plant-based and naturally creamy without dairy. - What broth works best for this recipe?
A good quality vegetable broth adds depth and flavor. - Can I freeze sweet potato stew?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. - What can I serve with this stew?
Flatbread, rice, quinoa, or a light salad make great sides. - How long does this stew last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days in an airtight container—it’s even better the next day!
Written by Magali, Cooking With Magali.
Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew – Cozy Vegan Comfort
Description
This Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew is the definition of comfort in a bowl. Packed with hearty lentils, creamy sweet potatoes, and an aromatic blend of spices, this stew is warming, deeply flavorful, and wonderfully nourishing. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s budget-friendly, vegan, and perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Inspired by North African and Middle Eastern flavors, it brings a deliciously spiced twist to your classic lentil stew.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using). Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
-
Stir in lentils, sweet potato, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
-
Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
-
Ladle into bowls and top with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with crusty bread or rice.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 290kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For extra creaminess, blend part of the stew before serving.
- Swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash or carrots.
- Make it heartier by adding a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes beautifully.
