Sweet Potato Peanut Curry Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that tastes like pure comfort with a punchy hint of the unexpected, Sweet Potato Peanut Curry is a must-make. This vibrant, hearty curry brings together tender sweet potatoes, creamy peanut butter, aromatic spices, and coconut milk in one big, soul-warming bowl. The flavors sing together—sweet, nutty, a little spicy, and with a creamy sauce that​ makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re settling in for a chilly night or just want a new way to love sweet potatoes, this Sweet Potato Peanut Curry delivers color, warmth, and major flavor.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of kitchen staples and a few vibrant veggies, you’ll have everything you need to make this dish shine. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to play off the others—balancing sweetness, creaminess, and just the right amount of spice for that classic Sweet Potato Peanut Curry taste.

• Sweet potatoes: The star ingredient brings a naturally sweet richness and gets deliciously tender in the sauce.
• Red onions: Adds a subtle sharpness and beautiful color to balance the flavors.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves bring essential depth and a mouthwatering aroma.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a gentle heat and zest that awakens all the other flavors.
• Cilantro stems and leaves: Stems go in the curry for flavor; sprinkle leaves on top for a burst of freshness.
• Peanut butter: Creamy, unsweetened peanut butter is key for the nutty, savory backbone of the dish.
• Coconut milk: Full-fat coconut milk makes the sauce silky and rich—don’t go low-fat here!
• Crushed tomatoes: This adds body to the curry and a gentle acidity that balances the sweetness from the potatoes.
• Vegetable broth: Choose a flavorful one; it’s the canvas that ties everything together.
• Spinach: Wilts perfectly at the end for extra nutrition and a pop of green.
• Curry powder: Lends layers of warmth and complexity—choose a good one!
• Red chili flakes: Sprinkle for a tiny kick (or a big one, if you love heat!).
• Lime: Adds essential brightness to lift all the flavors just before serving.
• Salt & black pepper: Season generously to wake up all those flavors.

How to Make Sweet Potato Peanut Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a generous splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the red onions and let them soften for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to turn translucent. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and chopped cilantro stems, then cook for another minute or two. The kitchen will instantly smell amazing, with all those fresh aromatics infusing the oil and setting the stage for a rich, layered Sweet Potato Peanut Curry.

Step 2: Incorporate the Spices and Tomato

Push the aromatics to the side and sprinkle your curry powder and red chili flakes directly into the oil. Stir to toast the spices briefly—it only takes about 30 seconds, but this step boosts their fragrance and flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to loosen any tasty bits stuck to the pot. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors and add a touch of acidity.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Spoon in the peanut butter and mix until it dissolves smoothly into the tomato mixture. After that, add the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir until everything is beautifully combined and creamy—this is where the Sweet Potato Peanut Curry gets its signature velvety texture and depth.

Step 4: Simmer the Sweet Potatoes

Gently add the diced sweet potatoes, making sure they’re fully submerged in the rich curry sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and infused with all that glorious flavor. You might need to give it an occasional stir to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Finish

Toss in the fresh spinach, stir, and let it wilt into the hot curry for the last few minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The final splash of lime brightens everything up, and suddenly your Sweet Potato Peanut Curry is bursting with color and flavor, ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Peanut Curry

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, garnish your curry with chopped cilantro leaves, a scattering of roasted peanuts, and a few extra chili flakes if you love spice. A squeeze of lime over each bowl brings everything into harmony and makes those flavors pop even more.

Side Dishes

Serve your Sweet Potato Peanut Curry with classic steamed basmati rice, fluffy quinoa, or even with warmed naan or flatbreads to scoop up every last drop of that luscious sauce. The simplicity of rice or the chewiness of naan both soak up the creamy curry for absolute comfort in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve the curry in hollowed-out roasted sweet potato halves for a fun, edible “bowl,” or ladle it over baked potatoes for a hearty twist. For family-style dinners, pour the Sweet Potato Peanut Curry into a big serving bowl, sprinkle garnishes over the top, and let everyone dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Sweet Potato Peanut Curry left, transfer it into an airtight container and pop it into the fridge as soon as it cools. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors just get richer with time.

Freezing

This curry is freezer-friendly! Freeze cooled portions in reusable containers or zip-top bags for up to two months. Let a portion thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for lunch or a super quick weeknight dinner.

Reheating

Gently reheat Sweet Potato Peanut Curry on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. In a pinch, the microwave works as well—just cover and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, if you love extra peanut-y texture, crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of fun and a pleasant bite to the curry. Just make sure to stir it well so it fully melts into the sauce.

Is this Sweet Potato Peanut Curry spicy?

It’s designed to have just a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat up or down. Simply add more chili flakes for heat-lovers, or leave them out if you prefer it mild and family-friendly.

Can I add chickpeas or other protein?

Absolutely! Chickpeas, cooked lentils, or even cubes of tofu are fantastic additions that make the curry even heartier. Just stir them in with the sweet potatoes or near the end of cooking so they’re warmed through.

Can I substitute the coconut milk?

If coconut milk isn’t your favorite, you can use unsweetened cashew cream or any thick plant-based milk. The richness is key, so avoid using watery alternatives for the best results.

What vegetables can I swap in?

This Sweet Potato Peanut Curry is forgiving and super versatile. Try adding bell peppers, cauliflower florets, kale, or even green beans—just toss them in according to how quickly they cook!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something boldly flavored, belly-warming, and a little different, now’s the moment to give Sweet Potato Peanut Curry a try. It’s an invitation to a cozy night in, and once you taste it, it’s bound to become a staple in your homemade comfort food lineup. Enjoy!