Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans and Corn

INGREDIENTS

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 15 oz can of black beans
1 can of corn
1 bag of shredded cheese
½ red onion
2-3 cloves of garlic
¼ tsp. cumin
1 ½ Tbsp. cooking oil
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
¼ tsp. chili powder (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Pre-heat oven to 350.
2. Give sweet potatoes a rinse and light scrub to remove any dirt on the skins.
3. Place the sweet potatoes on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 55-65 minutes (or until fork can easily pierce through potatoes).
   • TO MICROWAVE INSTEAD: Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork 5 or 6 times to create holes for the steam to escape through – place the holes all around the potato.
   • Cook on HIGH for 5 minutes for 1 potato – add 2 minutes for each additional potato.
   • Test the sweet potato with a fork, making sure it easily slides through. If your sweet potatoes need more time, cook in 30-second bursts until tender.
4. While the potatoes are baking, prepare the rest of your ingredients. Remove the skin from the onion and garlic and finely chop both (only use half of the onion); open the cans of black beans and corn and drain and rinse both.
5. When the sweet potatoes have 10 minutes left in the oven, begin to cook the black bean mixture.
   • Heat the oil in a medium-large pan. Add onion and garlic to the oil and sauté for 5 minutes or until soft.
   • Add spices and cook for 3 minutes, stirring regularly.
   • Add black beans and corn to pan, stirring for 5 minutes or until mixture is heated through. Set aside until sweet potatoes are done.
6. Remove sweet potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Slice open the sweet potatoes and use a fork to shred and mash the sweet potato inside the skin.
8. Spoon black bean and corn mixture over sweet potatoes and top with shredded cheese. Enjoy!

CARROT TIPS

• Top with fresh avocado, sour cream or yogurt, queso fresco, or an egg for extra protein.
• Don’t like potato skins? This recipe can easily be adapted into a casserole – roast the potatoes first and scoop out the flesh before mixing with beans, corn, and cheese for a family-friendly bake.
• Try adding other vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, or any of your other favorite baked potato toppings, like bacon or chives.
• This recipe is totally vegan if you skip the cheese, making it great for a family with different dietary needs! (Sweet potatoes and black beans form a complex protein together, making this a full meal!)

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