Place diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and broth into the crock pot. Set on low while you make the rest of the stew.
OPTIONAL STEP (if adding meat). Place meat of choice in frying pan with 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown for 5 minutes, then add onion and garlic. Continue to saute until onions are brown, about 2 minutes. Place browned meat and onion to the crock pot with the veggies and broth. Mix to combine.
Make the sauce by placing all sauce ingredients listed into a blender or food processor. Alternatively, use a whisk to mix by hand. Blend until creamy and smooth.
Add sauce to the crock pot, along with spinach and remaining seasonings, then stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4 ½ to 5 hrs or high for 3 hours. Note: If you cook on high, check for doneness after 2 hours
When the stew is ready, ladle it over individual bowls of hot rice. Garnish with cilantro, chopped roasted peanuts, and optional spicy peppers of choice.
