Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Tahini Sauce: A Comforting Plant-Based Meal

These stuffed sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, filled with nutritious toppings, and finished with a creamy tahini drizzle. A hearty and satisfying plant-based dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes:

1. 4 medium sweet potatoes
2. 1 tbsp olive oil
3. Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

1. 1 can (400 g) chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
2. 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (chopped)
3. 1 tbsp olive oil
4. 1 tsp ground cumin
5. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
6. Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tahini Sauce:

1. 1/4 cup tahini
2. 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3. 2 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
4. 1 garlic clove (minced)
5. 1/4 tsp ground cumin (optional)
6. Salt to taste

Optional Garnishes:

1. Fresh parsley (chopped)
2. Sesame seeds
3. Red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Sweet Potatoes:

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Scrub the sweet potatoes, pierce them with a fork, and rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Place on a baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.

Prepare the Toppings:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.
• Add the spinach or kale and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Make the Tahini Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, cumin (if using), and salt. Adjust water to achieve your desired consistency.

Assemble the Dish:

• Slice each roasted sweet potato lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
• Fill each sweet potato with the chickpea and spinach mixture.
• Drizzle generously with tahini sauce and garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 9 g
• Sugar: 11 g

Vitamins and Benefits

Contains:

• Vitamin A (sweet potatoes): Supports vision and immune health.
• Iron (chickpeas): Promotes healthy blood circulation.

Benefits:
This dish is nutrient-dense, high in fiber, and packed with plant-based protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.

Sweet potatoes are among the oldest cultivated crops, with evidence of their use dating back over 5,000 years in Peru!

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ

Can I use other toppings?
“Yes! Roasted vegetables, black beans, or avocado make great alternatives or additions.”

What can I use instead of tahini?
“Try almond butter or cashew butter mixed with lemon juice and water for a similar creamy sauce.”

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
“Roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the toppings in advance. Assemble and reheat just before serving.”