- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon, optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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Looking for a quick yet flavorful meal? This spicy pork and sweet potato stew is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender pork and succulent sweet potatoes, this dish offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, cubed
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Hot sauce (optional)
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare Ingredients**
- Dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Slice the bell peppers.
**Step 2: Sauté Vegetables**
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
**Step 3: Cook Pork**
- Increase the heat to medium-high.
- Add the cubed pork to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the pork starts to brown on all sides.
**Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquids**
- Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and brown sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
**Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes and Bell Peppers**
- Stir in diced sweet potatoes and sliced bell peppers.
- Simmer uncovered for an additional 12-15 minutes or until the pork is tender and the sweet potatoes are cooked through.
**Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasonings**
- Check the seasoning. If needed, add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to taste.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dash of hot sauce if desired.
#### Tips for Success
- Use bone-in pork shoulder for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Don't skip sautéing the vegetables; this step enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder according to your preference.
#### Conclusion
This quick spicy pork and sweet potato stew is a delightful dish that's easy to make and sure to warm up any chilly evening. Perfect for family dinners, it’s also great for meal prepping during the week. Enjoy the blend of smoky spices with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes!