• Pierce the sweet potato with a fork. Microwave it on top of a paper towel on high for 4 – 6 minutes until it is tender. Let it cool slightly and cut it into 1/2–inch cubes.
• Meanwhile, in a heavy stockpot, brown the beef and onions, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until it is cooked through, 8 – 10 minutes. (If using vegetarian ground “meat,” add it with the beans and tomatoes.)
• Add the beans, tomatoes, and chipotle peppers. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer it, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
• Add the sweet potatoes and cook 5 more minutes until it is heated through, stirring once.
• Sprinkle the stew with the cilantro and lime juice. Serve it immediately, garnished with lime wedges, if desired, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

Slow Cooker Directions

• No need to pre-cook the sweet potato. Simply put all the ingredients (except the cilantro and lime) into the slow cooker and cook it on low for 6 – 7 hours, or high for 3 – 4 hours until the ground beef is fully cooked and the potatoes are softened. Top it with the cilantro and lime as directed above. (Slow cooker cooking times may vary—Get to know your slow cooker and, if necessary, adjust cooking times accordingly.)