Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Tahini and Silan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted sweet potatoes are a comforting and versatile dish, but when paired with tahini, silan, and a sprinkle of za’atar, they become something extraordinary. The za’atar gives the potatoes a savory, herbaceous twist, while the tahini and silan sauce provides creaminess and a perfect hint of sweetness. The pomegranate seeds and pistachios add a burst of color, texture, and flavor, making this dish a true showstopper. It’s easy to prepare, and the combination of flavors is sure to impress at any dinner table.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs of sweet potatoes (about 4 large ones)
• 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoon za’atar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoon tahini
• 2 tablespoon silan (date syrup)
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup shelled pistachios

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes or wedges.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Place the chopped sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar and salt. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through for even roasting.
3. Prepare the Tahini Sauce: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, whisk together the tahini and silan (date syrup) in a small bowl. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to thin it out to a drizzle-worthy consistency.
4. Assemble the Dish: Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the tahini-silan sauce over the top.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the roasted sweet potatoes with pomegranate seeds and shelled pistachios for added crunch and a burst of color. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint for added freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the tahini sauce for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
• Nuts: Swap pistachios for toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the roasted sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, while sweet potatoes are ideal for this dish, you can also use regular potatoes or even root vegetables like carrots or parsnips.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the tahini-silan sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and drizzle the sauce on just before serving.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, as it contains no animal products.

Can I substitute silan with something else?

If you can’t find silan, you can use maple syrup or honey (if not vegan) as an alternative for sweetness.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, with slightly caramelized edges. They should be soft on the inside and golden brown on the outside.

Can I use store-bought za’atar?

Yes, you can use store-bought za’atar if you don’t have the ingredients to make it yourself. Just ensure it’s a high-quality blend for the best flavor.

Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tahini sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before using.

Can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or even a chopped fresh chili pepper to the tahini sauce.

Can I add a protein to this dish?

For a complete meal, you can add roasted chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh to this dish for an extra boost of protein.

Can I freeze this dish?

While the roasted sweet potatoes can be frozen, the tahini-silan sauce and garnishes (pomegranate and pistachios) are best fresh. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the sweet potatoes alone and reheat them once thawed.

Conclusion

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Tahini and Silan is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines the best of savory and sweet in every bite. The roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious base for the creamy, slightly sweet tahini sauce, while the pistachios and pomegranate seeds provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect as a side for a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or a special gathering. It’s simple, yet impressive, and will surely become a favorite on your table!

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