Spiced chicken, spinach & sweet potato stew

This stew offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures with the sweetness of sweet potatoes, the spice of the seasoning, and the creaminess of coconut milk. It’s a warm and satisfying dish perfect for a hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups (about 1 liter) chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (about 240ml) coconut milk
• 3 cups (about 90g) fresh spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add Sweet Potatoes and Liquid:
   • Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Stew:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Finish with Coconut Milk and Spinach:
   • Stir in the coconut milk and fresh spinach leaves. Let the stew simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts and the stew thickens slightly.
6. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
   • Serve the spiced chicken, spinach, and sweet potato stew over cooked rice or with crusty bread.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.