Shrimp and Sweet Potato Stew | Comforting and Nutritious Seafood Stew Recipe
Introduction
There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty, flavorful stew, especially when it combines tender shrimp, sweet potatoes, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. This Shrimp and Sweet Potato Stew brings together all the cozy elements of a stew—rich, savory broth, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked sweet potatoes—into a bowl of pure comfort.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner to enjoy with your family or a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight, this stew has you covered. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and customizable to your preferences. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory broth and the succulent shrimp, creating a well-rounded dish that’s packed with flavor.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make Shrimp and Sweet Potato Stew from scratch. I’ll take you step-by-step through the process, share ingredient tips, and offer variations to suit different dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can make this stew in under 45 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of shrimp, sweet potatoes, and vegetables creates a rich, flavorful broth that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Nutritious: Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while shrimp adds lean protein to keep you feeling satisfied.
- Customizable: This recipe is easily adaptable. You can swap out vegetables, adjust the spice level, or make it creamy by adding a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Shrimp
Shrimp is the star protein in this stew. Its tender texture and sweet, briny flavor make it the perfect addition to the dish. When choosing shrimp, make sure to buy large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for convenience. You can use frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them before cooking. For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute shrimp with scallops or white fish like cod or halibut. - Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are not only nutritious but also provide a slight sweetness that balances the savory elements of the stew. They are rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. When preparing the sweet potatoes, make sure to peel and cube them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. If you prefer a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked sweet potatoes or butternut squash as a substitute. - Carrots
Carrots add natural sweetness and crunch to the stew. They’re also packed with beta-carotene, which supports eye health. Slice the carrots thinly or cut them into rounds for a nice texture in the stew. For added nutrition, you can include parsnips as a substitute or in combination with the carrots. - Onion
A basic yellow onion forms the base of the stew’s aromatic flavor. Onions provide a mild sweetness when sautéed, adding depth to the broth. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use shallots instead. - Garlic
Garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to the stew. It enhances the overall taste of the broth and complements the shrimp and sweet potatoes. For the best results, use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder. You can either mince the garlic or smash it with the side of a knife for a more aromatic flavor. - Vegetable Broth
Vegetable broth serves as the liquid base of this stew. It provides a mild, savory foundation that allows the flavors of the vegetables and shrimp to shine through. For a richer broth, you can use chicken broth or seafood stock. If you’re looking for a creamy version, substitute some of the broth with coconut milk or heavy cream. - Herbs and Spices
To elevate the flavor of the stew, you’ll need a blend of herbs and spices:- Thyme: A classic herb that complements both sweet potatoes and shrimp.
- Bay leaves: Add an earthy, aromatic flavor to the broth.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky, mild heat that balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Olive Oil
A drizzle of olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic at the beginning, adding a rich, smooth texture to the stew.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients
Start by prepping all of your ingredients. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, slice the carrots, chop the onions, and mince the garlic. If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water. - Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. This step helps release the flavors of the onion and garlic, which will form the base of your stew. - Cook the Vegetables
Add the cubed sweet potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir them around for a minute to coat them with the oil and aromatics. Then, add the vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the stew simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. - Add the Shrimp
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add the shrimp to the pot. Stir everything together and let the shrimp cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. - Finish the Stew
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika if desired. If you prefer a creamier stew, you can add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at this point. - Serve and Garnish
Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, herby touch. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad to complete the meal.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the stew for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you want to serve it with bread, be sure to use gluten-free bread.
- Creamy Version: For a richer stew, add a can of coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream after the shrimp is cooked.
- Make it Vegan: Replace the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian or vegan version of the stew.
- Use Other Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or parsnips to the stew. Adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the vegetables you choose.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad to balance the flavors. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with roasted potatoes or steamed rice.
- Pairing Drinks: A white wine like Pinot Grigio or a crisp Chardonnay pairs well with this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, serve the stew with a refreshing lemon iced tea or sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The stew flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezer: You can freeze the stew for up to 1 month. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the stew in a pot over medium heat until it reaches the desired temperature. You can also microwave individual servings in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: Chop and prep the vegetables ahead of time for an even quicker cooking process. You can also marinate the shrimp for added flavor.
- Adjusting the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can use an immersion blender to puree a small portion of the sweet potatoes and carrots, which will give the stew a creamier texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Cholesterol | 160 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American/Seafood
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add sweet potatoes, carrots, and broth, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add shrimp, cook for 5 minutes until pink.
- Adjust seasoning and serve with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can use chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Health Benefits
- Shrimp: High in protein and low in calories, shrimp is a great choice for muscle repair and overall health.
- Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are excellent for immune support and skin health.
- Carrots: A rich source of beta-carotene, carrots contribute to healthy eyesight and overall vitality.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Once they turn pink, they’re done.
- Not Enough Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving. The flavors of the broth can be mild, so don’t skip the salt and pepper.
- Skipping the Garnish: Garnishing the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness, elevating the flavor of the dish.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them before adding to the stew. - What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or even water with added seasoning. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add some red pepper flakes or fresh chilies for extra heat. - Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, the stew can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, kale, or other vegetables you like. - Can I make this dish creamy?
Yes, add some coconut milk or heavy cream for a creamy twist.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Sweet Potato Stew is the perfect combination of healthy, comforting, and flavorful. The sweetness of the potatoes, the briny shrimp, and the hearty broth come together to make a dish that will satisfy your taste buds and warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy, and don’t forget to leave a comment below letting me know how it turned out!
