BBQ Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

These BBQ Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a flavorful, hearty, and healthy meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. The sweet potatoes are roasted until tender, then stuffed with seasoned chickpeas, and topped with BBQ sauce, creating a perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes

• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream (optional, for topping)

Preparation Steps

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Pierce each sweet potato with a fork a few times, then place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

2. Prepare the Chickpeas

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chickpeas, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the spices. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are crispy and golden brown.

3. Add BBQ Sauce

Once the chickpeas are cooked, pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to coat the chickpeas evenly. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chickpeas to absorb the flavor.

4. Assemble the Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, carefully slice them open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the insides of each sweet potato, creating a space to add the chickpea filling.

5. Stuff the Sweet Potatoes

Spoon the BBQ chickpeas into the center of each roasted sweet potato. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream for extra creaminess, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

6. Serve

Serve immediately as a delicious and satisfying meal. These stuffed sweet potatoes are packed with flavor, and the combination of tender sweet potatoes and smoky chickpeas will leave you feeling full and happy.

Expert Tips

• Customize the Filling: You can add other vegetables like sautéed spinach, kale, or roasted peppers to the chickpea mixture for extra texture and nutrients.

• Make It Spicy: If you like some heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ chickpeas.

• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based sour cream or skip the yogurt entirely for a fully vegan version of this dish.

• Meal Prep: These stuffed sweet potatoes make excellent leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Dish Works

BBQ Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes offer a great balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tender sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky, tangy chickpeas, creating a filling and nutritious meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. This dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and satisfying.

Conclusion

BBQ Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and wholesome meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. The roasted sweet potatoes, paired with smoky BBQ chickpeas and topped with creamy yogurt, create a well-rounded and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day.