Hearty African Peanut Stew with Sweet Potatoes & Chickpeas

This African peanut stew is rich, hearty, and full of bold flavors. Made with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, warm spices, and creamy peanut butter, this plant-based stew is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or when you’re craving something satisfying yet nourishing, this vegan African stew is both protein-packed and naturally gluten-free.


Why You’ll Love This African Peanut Stew

  • 🌱 100% plant-based and dairy-free

  • 🍠 Rich and hearty with sweet potatoes and chickpeas

  • 🥜 Creamy peanut butter adds incredible flavor and texture

  • ⏱ Easy to make in under 45 minutes

  • 🥘 Meal-prep friendly and freezer-friendly

This vegan African peanut soup combines savory, spicy, and nutty notes into a dish that’s deeply comforting while still being packed with nutrients.


Ingredients for Vegan African Stew

  • 1–2 Tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced

  • 1 jalapeño, deseeded and diced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon coriander

  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices

  • 5–6 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

  • 5–6 cups vegetable broth (enough to cover vegetables)

  • ½ cup all-natural peanut butter

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 4 large handfuls spinach, chopped (added at the end)

  • Juice of ½ a lemon


How to Make African Peanut Stew (Step-by-Step)

  1. Sauté Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and jalapeño, sautéing for 3–5 minutes.

  2. Add Garlic & Spices – Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, ginger, cayenne, and garlic powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Build the Stew – Add diced tomatoes, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, and peanut butter. Stir to combine.

  4. Simmer – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

  5. Mash for Creaminess – Use a potato masher to mash half the stew for a thicker texture (optional).

  6. Finish & Serve – Season with salt and pepper, stir in spinach, and add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.


Storage & Meal Prep Tips

  • Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

  • Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

  • Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if too thick.


Serving Suggestions 🍴

  • Serve with cauliflower rice, steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal.

  • Pair with flatbread or warm pita for dipping.

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or chili flakes for extra flavor.

This African stew with sweet potatoes and peanut butter is a rich, comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again. 

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