Moroccan Spiced Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Yogurt and Za’atar

Introduction

Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this enticing recipe for Moroccan Spiced Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Yogurt and Za'atar. These sweet potatoes, infused with an aromatic blend of Moroccan spices and roasted to perfection, become a tantalizing canvas for a refreshing yogurt sauce and the earthy, nutty notes of za'atar. Prepare to delight your taste buds with this delectable side dish that complements any meal.

Ingredients

For theRoasted Sweet Potatoes:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons za'atar spice blend
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Steps

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato cubes, olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Toss to evenly coat. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Make the Yogurt Sauce:

While the potatoes roast, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, cilantro, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

3. Assemble the Dish:

Remove the roasted sweet potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly. Transfer the potatoes to plates and top generously with the yogurt sauce. Sprinkle with za'atar and garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips

• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice blend.
• If you don't have za'atar, you can substitute a mixture of thyme, oregano, and marjoram.
• These roasted sweet potatoes can be served warm or chilled.
• Leftover roasted sweet potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other root vegetables in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute carrots, parsnips, or turnips for the sweet potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time as needed.

Q: Can I make the yogurt sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the yogurt sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

Q: What are some other toppings I can use for this dish?
A: You can top your roasted sweet potatoes with a dollop of hummus, feta cheese, or crushed walnuts.