What is a good butter substitute for baked sweet potatoes?

We use coconut oil in this sweet potato casserole, which enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

Are candied yams and sweet potato casserole the same thing?

Yams and sweet potatoes are actually different vegetables, but you can use either in this recipe!

Can I add a crunchy topping to this sweet potato casserole?

Sure! We like to sprinkle nuts over top, but you could also add crispy oats as a topping.

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Description

Vegan sweet potato casserole is a healthy Thanksgiving side dish that is rich in flavor and so easy to make!

Ingredients

Units

2 1/2 pounds yams or sweet potatoes (organic is best especially when leaving the peel on)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ancho chile powder (or use smoked paprika)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons coconut sugar or brown sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary minced
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup hot water

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Instructions

Mix spices: Add cinnamon, allspice, coriander, ancho chile, salt, pepper, and coconut sugar together in a small bowl.
Combine rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, maple syrup, coconut oil, hot water and 2 teaspoons of the spice mix.
Wash the yams well, no need to peel! Slice the yams with a mandoline about 1/8 inch thick. Arrange yam slices in a 9×13 baking pan. One trick is making 5-6 stacks of the sliced yams and then arranging them fanned out sideways in the casserole dish (no need to oil it).
Pour the orange coconut oil liquid evenly over the top of the yams. Sprinkle the remaining spices over the top.
Cover the pan and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 30 minutes more until yams are melty tender and edges get slightly crusty.

Notes

Enhance with nuts. Pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds or pumpkin seeds would all be delicious. Coarsely chop and sprinkle over the top after you remove the foil.

Sometimes sweet potatoes can oxidize when cut, turning them dark in places. We recommend making this dish on the day of serving. It can be baked a few hours ahead and then reheated to serve.

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Feel free to cut back on the sugar or maple, the dish is on the sweet side.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 219
Sugar: 13.6 g
Sodium: 240.8 mg
Fat: 6.9 g
Saturated Fat: 5.7 g
Carbohydrates: 37.6 g
Fiber: 4.6 g
Protein: 2.4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg