Crockpot Sweet Potato and Quinoa Pilaf Recipe
A hearty and nutritious Crockpot Sweet Potato and Quinoa Pilaf made with tender sweet potatoes, fluffy quinoa, and a touch of warming cinnamon. This easy slow-cooker recipe combines wholesome ingredients into a delicious side dish or light main meal, perfect for busy days and comforting dining.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Grains
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1/2 onion, chopped
Dried Fruit
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Liquids & Spices
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. Chop half an onion finely.
- Combine the ingredients: Place the cubed sweet potatoes, rinsed quinoa, chopped onion, and dried cranberries (if using) into the crockpot. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and sprinkle the ground cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 2 hours. Cook until the quinoa is fully cooked and fluffy and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Using a fork, fluff the quinoa and sweet potato mixture gently. Serve warm as a satisfying side dish or enjoy as a nutritious light meal on its own.
Notes
- Rinsing the quinoa thoroughly helps eliminate its bitter coating called saponin.
- Dried cranberries can be omitted or substituted with raisins or chopped dried apricots for different flavors.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your preference, especially if your vegetable broth is salted.
- This pilaf can be made vegan and gluten-free by choosing appropriate broth and ensuring no cross-contamination.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3-4 days and can be gently reheated.
Keywords: sweet potato quinoa pilaf, crockpot quinoa recipe, slow cooker sweet potato side, healthy quinoa dish, vegetarian pilaf
