Looking for a hearty and delicious dish that perfectly captures the flavors of autumn? This Vegan Harvest Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples recipe is just what you need. Combining the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the crispness of apples, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Originating from traditional fall harvest dishes, this recipe brings together classic flavors in a new and exciting way, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Ingredients
To prepare this mouth-watering Vegan Harvest Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Apples:
- Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Next, core and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes and apple slices. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
Baking
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the sweet potatoes and apples are in a single layer to ensure even baking.
- Bake the Mixture:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, stir the mixture to promote even cooking. The sweet potatoes should be tender and slightly caramelized, and the apples should be soft.
Final Touches
- Add the Pecans:
- If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them over the mixture in the last 5 minutes of baking for a toasty flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired, and serve warm.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Sizing: Ensure that the sweet potato cubes and apple slices are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking and prevents any pieces from being undercooked or burnt.
- Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Adding a pinch of cloves or ginger can enhance the autumnal flavors.
- Maple Syrup Substitute: Agave nectar or honey (for non-vegans) can be used as substitutes for maple syrup.
Variations
- Potato Apple: For a twist, add chunks of red potatoes alongside sweet potatoes for a more complex flavor profile.
- Roasted Potato Bowls: Serve the baked mixture in a bowl with a drizzle of vegan yogurt or tahini dressing for a filling meal.
- Roasted Potatoes Quinoa: Combine the baked sweet potatoes and apples with cooked quinoa and a handful of spinach for a nutritious grain bowl.
- Roasted Potato, Spiced Chickpea & Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Add spiced roasted chickpeas and assorted roasted vegetables to the mix for a vibrant, protein-packed salad.
Substitutions
- Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if desired, or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.
- Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like sage or parsley to find your preferred flavor combination.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving of the Vegan Harvest Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples:
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 12g
This dish is rich in dietary fiber and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
The Vegan Harvest Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples is a delightful recipe that beautifully blends the sweetness of apples with the earthy flavors of sweet potatoes. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply enjoy a cozy meal at home, this recipe is the perfect choice.