If like me you haven't done a food shop this week and have veggies to use up or are craving something different, look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry. Packed with flavour and nutrition, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling satisfied. Imagine the perfect blend of sweet and savoury flavours, combined with the rich creaminess of sweet potato and the earthy depths of black beans. This curry is a true delight for the senses, delivering a burst of flavours in every bite. What sets this recipe apart is not just its taste, but also its nutritional value. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while black beans provide a good source of plant-based protein. Together, they create a wholesome and balanced meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energised. So why wait? Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal!

To make this delicious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed - Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing a natural sweetness and creamy texture. Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes.

2. 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained - Black beans add a hearty and satisfying element to the curry. You can use canned beans for convenience or cook your own from scratch.

3. 1 onion, finely chopped - Onion forms the base of the curry, adding depth and flavor to the dish. Choose a white or yellow onion for a milder taste.

4. 3 cloves of garlic, minced - Garlic adds a fragrant and aromatic element to the curry. Freshly minced garlic works best, but you can also use pre-minced garlic for convenience.

5. 1 courgette, diced - courgettes are rich in Vitamin C and add a pop of colour to this recipe. You can also use any veg you have in for fridge.

6. 1 packet of spinach - spinach is nutrient packed and high in fiber.

7. 1 can of coconut milk - Coconut milk provides a creamy and luscious base for the curry. Use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavour and texture.

8. 2 tablespoons of curry powder - Curry powder is the key ingredient that infuses the dish with its distinctive flavour. 

9. 1 teaspoon of ground cumin - Cumin adds a warm and earthy note to the curry, complementing the other flavours in the dish.

10. 1 teaspoon of ground coriander - Coriander adds a fresh and citrusy flavour to the curry, enhancing its overall taste.

11. 1 veg stock cube - perfect adding depth and flavour and will loosen the curry if necessary when mixed with water.

12. 1 tablespoon honey - adds extra sweetness to the curry.

13. Salt and pepper to taste - Season the curry with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go along.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this delicious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry.

1. Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

2. Once the onion is cooked, add the diced courgette and veg stock cube to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the courgette starts to soften.

3. Next, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir well to coat the sweet potatoes with the onion, garlic, and courgette mixture.

4. Sprinkle the curry powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander over the sweet potatoes. Stir everything together to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.

5. Pour in the can of coconut milk and honey and stir well to combine. The coconut milk will add a rich and creamy texture to the curry.

6. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the curry simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

7. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, add the rinsed and drained black beans to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate the beans into the curry, being careful not to mash the sweet potatoes.

8. Continue to simmer the curry for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together. Add water at this point if you need to loosen the curry.

9. Taste the curry and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavours. 

10. Remove the pot from the heat and let the curry rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavours to further develop and intensify.

Congratulations! You have successfully made a delicious Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry. The next section will provide you with some tips and tricks to enhance the flavours of this already delightful dish.

- For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped chili pepper to the curry. This will add a spicy element to balance out the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. I added a tablespoon of garlic and chilli paste from waitrose - it is my secret weapon for alot of dishes.

- To add a tangy twist, squeeze the juice of half a lime into the curry just before serving. The acidity of the lime will brighten up the flavours and add a refreshing touch.

- Garnish the curry with freshly chopped coriander for a burst of freshness and added visual appeal. The herbs will compliment the flavours of the dish and provide a vibrant finishing touch.

- If you prefer a creamier curry like me, you can add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt to each serving. This will add a tangy and creamy element to the dish.

- Experiment with different spices and herbs to customise the flavour of the curry. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or a sprinkle of garam masala for a more complex taste.

Now that you have learned some tips to enhance the flavours of the curry, let's explore some variations and substitutions you can make to cater to your personal preferences.

- If you're not a fan of sweet potatoes, you can swap them out for butternut squash or carrots. Both options will provide a similar sweetness and texture to the curry.

- Instead of black beans, you can use kidney beans or chickpeas as a protein source. These legumes will lend a different taste and texture to the curry, adding variety to your meal.

- Feel free to add other vegetables to the curry, such as peppers, or kale. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value of the dish but also add a pop of colour and freshness.

- If you prefer a vegan or dairy-free option, you can replace the coconut milk with cashew cream or almond milk. These alternatives will still provide a creamy base for the curry without the use of animal products.

- For a heartier meal, you can serve the curry over cooked rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice. The grains or cauliflower will soak up the flavours of the curry and add a satisfying element to the dish.

Now that you have your Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry ready, it's time to think about how to serve and enjoy this delicious and nutritious meal.

- Serve the curry as a main dish alongside some naan bread or roti for a complete meal. The bread will help soak up the flavourful sauce and add a delightful texture to each bite.

- If you prefer a lighter meal, you can serve the curry over a bed of steamed basmati rice or quinoa. The grains will provide a neutral base that allows the flavours of the curry to shine through.

- For added freshness, serve the curry with a side of cucumber and tomato salad. Simply toss together sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of lemon juice for a refreshing accompaniment.

- If you're hosting a gathering or dinner party, consider serving the curry in individual bowls with a variety of toppings. Some delicious options include toasted coconut flakes, chopped peanuts, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh mint.

- Don't forget to have some cooling beverages on hand to balance out the spiciness of the curry. A refreshing glass of mango lassi or a tall glass of iced tea will complement the flavours of the dish and provide a soothing contrast.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to get into the kitchen and start cooking this mouthwatering Sweet Potato and Black Bean Curry. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and delight your taste buds with this delicious and nutritious recipe!