Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only flavorful but also brimming with nutrients. They are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, along with essential vitamins. One medium-sized sweet potato contains approximately 112 calories, 4 grams of protein, and 26 grams of carbohydrates. Naturally sweet, they pair well with both savory and sweet fillings.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare your stuffed sweet potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes

• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup of corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 avocado, diced (for topping)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Lime wedges (for serving)

  
  

This vibrant combination not only tastes great but also adds visual appeal to your plate.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

1. Bake the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to eliminate dirt. Poke holes in them with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

   
   

2. Cool and Slice: After baking, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly. Then, slice each potato in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.

   
   

3. Scoop Out the Flesh: Gently scoop out some of the flesh to create space for your stuffing, being careful to leave enough of the walls intact so the potato can hold its shape.

   
   

Making the Filling

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

   
   

2. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and create a hearty filling.

   
   

3. Stuff the Potatoes: Take the scooped sweet potato flesh, mix it into the filling, adding flavor and moisture. Then, generously spoon the filling back into each sweet potato half.

   
   

4. Add Toppings: Once done, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and add diced avocado on top. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a refreshing twist.

   
   

Variations to Consider

The adaptability of stuffed sweet potatoes is one of their best features. Here are a few tasty variations to explore:

• Mediterranean Style: Swap the filling for sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, and vegan cheese for a delightful Mediterranean twist.

  
  

• BBQ Tofu: Combine Tofu with BBQ sauce and stuff it into the sweet potatoes. Finish with coleslaw for an added crunch.

  
  

• Breakfast Version: Fill the sweet potatoes with Tempeh or Tofu, Avocado, Spinach, and cheese for a filling breakfast.

  
  

These variations provide options for any palate and are a great way to mix up your cooking routine.