It’s getting hotter outside and we’re looking to eat healthier. And as our work days get busier, we’re finding less and less time to cook during the week. A hot Sunday afternoon is a good excuse to stay in the AC and cook . . . and cook . . . and cook. Even though it’s hot out, this stew sounded too perfect to pass up – plus we made some additions with sweet potato and brown rice. Give this simple stew a shot – even on a hot day.
African Curried Coconut Stew
2 tablespoons peanut oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño chili, seeded and minced
2 large cloves garlic, minced
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
2 1/4 teaspoon mild curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 (14-ounce) can light coconut milk
3/4 cup cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
In a medium stockpot, over medium heat, add the oil, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for approximately 1 minute. While stirring constantly, add the curry and saute for 30 seconds. Add the broth, chickpeas, tomatoes, sweet potato, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer gently, covered, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Add the rice and stir until heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir through the chopped parsley and serve warm.
Adapted from The Tropical Vegan Kitchen by Donna Klein; available at http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/African-Curried-Coconut-Soup-with-Chickpeas-352349.
