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Introduction
The combination of ground turkey and sweet potatoes has become a beloved staple in many health-conscious kitchens, with roots tracing back to the Native American tradition of utilizing these nutrient-dense ingredients. This dish celebrates the cultural heritage while adding a modern twist with its bold spice blend and one-pan convenience. As the aromas of sizzling turkey and caramelized sweet potatoes waft through the kitchen, it evokes cozy memories of family gatherings and cherished home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Step 1:
Peel and dice the sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 3:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 4:
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, until no longer pink.
Step 5:
Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 6:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 7:
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, remove the lid and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.
Step 8:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Q: Can I substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey?
A: Yes, ground chicken or lean beef can be used as a substitute for the ground turkey in this recipe.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, omit the ground turkey and increase the amount of sweet potatoes and vegetables. You can also substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
Q: Can I use frozen or canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
A: Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, but frozen or canned sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using frozen or canned sweet potatoes.
• Look for organic or locally sourced sweet potatoes for optimal flavor and nutrition.
• Substitute ground chicken or lean beef for the turkey if preferred.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the ground turkey and increase the amount of sweet potatoes and vegetables.
• This recipe is gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting any dairy-based garnishes.
• Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.
Serve the turkey and sweet potato skillet hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Prep the vegetables and measure out the spices ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. The sweet potatoes can be cooked simultaneously with the turkey to save time.
- Use a well-seasoned or non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning of the turkey and vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your desired level of heat and flavor preference.
- For extra creaminess, mash or purée a portion of the cooked sweet potatoes before mixing them back into the skillet.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeño or chipotle chili pepper. For a creamy twist, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans. A crisp green salad or a dollop of guacamole would also pair nicely. For a beverage pairing, consider a refreshing iced tea or a light beer.
This dish is suitable for any season, but the sweet potatoes are at their peak during the fall and winter months.
This recipe is free from gluten, dairy, and nuts. However, it contains poultry (turkey), and some variations may include dairy-based garnishes like sour cream or yogurt.
