Cookbook:Chikwanda (Zambian Sweet Potato Stew)

Chikwanda is a Zambian stew that showcases the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes in a rich and savory sauce. This comforting dish is a favorite in Zambian cuisine, combining the earthiness of sweet potatoes with a medley of aromatic spices.

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
 * 1 onion, finely chopped
 * 2 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 1 tomato, diced
 * 1 hot pepper (optional, for heat), chopped
 * 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
 * 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
 * 2 cups vegetable broth or water
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
 * ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
 * Salt, to taste

Equipment

 * Large pot
 * Cutting board
 * Knife
 * Wooden spoon

Procedure

 * 1) In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
 * 2) Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
 * 3) Add the diced tomato and chopped hot pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook until the tomato is soft and tender.
 * 4) Stir in the ground cumin, ground cayenne pepper, and ground turmeric, coating the vegetables with the spices.
 * 5) Add the diced sweet potatoes and sliced carrot to the pot. Mix well with the spiced vegetables.
 * 6) Pour in the vegetable broth or water, ensuring that the sweet potatoes and carrots are mostly submerged.
 * 7) Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
 * 8) Let the stew cook for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender and cooked through.
 * 9) Season the stew with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
 * 10) Remove the pot from the heat and let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * You can add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the stew for added taste and nutrition.
 * For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the cooked sweet potatoes with a fork and mix them back into the stew.
 * Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and essential minerals.