Discover the magic of sweet potatoes with this rich, creamy, and vegan-friendly casserole. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a savory, herb-infused sauce, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for a wholesome dish, this casserole offers a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of sweet potatoes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 500g (1lb) sweet potato
  (Peeled and sliced as thin as possible)
• 250ml (8fl oz) dairy-free double cream
  (You can substitute with full-fat oat milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  (Provides a cheesy, umami flavor that enhances the creaminess of the dish)
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
  (Helps thicken the sauce and create a rich, velvety texture)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  (Adds a mild heat and complements the other spices)
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs mix
  (Infuses the dish with a blend of aromatic herbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  (Gives a warm, slightly sweet undertone that pairs well with sweet potatoes)
• Salt to taste
  (Adjust according to your preference)
• 2 tablespoons grated dairy-free cheese
  (Optional, for extra creaminess and a cheesy top)
• 2 garlic cloves
  (Chopped for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Begin by peeling 500g (1lb) of sweet potatoes and slicing them as thinly as possible. Thin slices ensure even cooking and better absorption of the sauce.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 190°C (370°F) to prepare for baking.
3. Grease the Baking Dish:
   • Lightly grease a baking dish with oil. The recommended size is approximately 20x5cm (8×2 inches) to accommodate the sliced sweet potatoes and sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Arrange the sweet potato slices in the prepared baking dish, layering them evenly.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a jug, mix together 250ml (8fl oz) of dairy-free double cream (or your choice of full-fat oat milk or coconut milk), 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, 2 tablespoons of corn starch, 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs mix, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and salt to taste.
   • Add 2 chopped garlic cloves for extra flavor.
   • Blend the ingredients until well combined. If using double cream, blend just enough to mix the ingredients smoothly without whipping the cream.
6. Pour the Sauce:
   • Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the sweet potato slices in the baking dish, ensuring that all slices are covered.
7. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. The casserole is ready when the sauce is bubbly and has thickened to a firm consistency. The edges should be slightly golden and the sweet potatoes tender.
8. Optional Toppings:
   • If desired, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated dairy-free cheese over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve a cheesy, golden crust.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve warm as a hearty lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.

FAQs:

1. Can I use regular cream instead of dairy-free cream?
Yes, if you are not following a vegan diet, you can use regular cream. However, if you prefer a dairy-free version, stick to the plant-based alternatives like oat or coconut milk.

2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Once baked and cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Certainly! You can add other vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are sliced thinly and cooked through.

5. What can I serve with this casserole?
This sweet potato casserole is great on its own or served with a side of fresh greens, a quinoa salad, or as a side dish to a main course like vegan lentil loaf or grilled tofu.

 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g