Matthews Ridgeview Farms

Smoky Pork & Sweet Potato Stew

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or bacon drippings for extra flavor)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced (for smoky heat)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (just enough to highlight the sweet potatoes)
  • ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (optional, balances heat and acid)
  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional, added at the end)
  • Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
     

Instructions

Sear the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.


Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook 2–3 minutes more until fragrant.


Add Seasonings & Tomato Base
Stir in tomato paste, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.


Build the Stew
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.


Simmer Until Tender
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender.


Add the Sweet Potatoes
Add cubed sweet potatoes and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened slightly.


Finish & Serve
Stir in kale or spinach (if using) just before serving, letting it wilt. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
 

Tips & Variations

  • Add a splash of apple cider or bourbon for depth and richness.
    Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy finish.
  • Serve with buttermilk cornbread, rice, or warm crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
  • For a Caribbean twist, add a dash of allspice and a squeeze of lime at the end.