“Or, rather, let us be more simple and less vain.”
― Rousseau Jean-Jacques
Mashed Sweet Potatoes for Grounding and Healing
This recipe won over quite a few hearts on our last Ayurveda retreat, so I am sharing the recipe here. Sometimes, it feels really good to keep a very simple diet of foods that are grounding, nourishing, comforting and easily digestible.
Sweet potatoes are truly a superfood and are great for healing the digestive system, including ulcers, inflamed colons, digestive disorders, and constipation. Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, meaning that they can satisfy the appetite for long stretches of time, and yet are light on your stomach (unlike white potatoes). They support healthy elimination, blood sugar balance and balanced body weight.
You can play around with the spices and toppings to suit your mood, season, dosha or digestive strength. This is a lovely meal served as a side for dahls, quinoa, steamed greens and a side of kimchi.
Recipe:
1 cup water
1 large sweet potato
1 tsp ghee or olive oil (or coconut oil)
Coriander
¼ tsp Ginger powder or 1/2 - 1 tsp fresh chopped ginger (pittas use less)
¼ tsp Cumin powder
⅓ tsp Garlic powder (optional_
⅓ tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp clove (optional)
½ tsp mineral salt, or to taste
Pinch of cayenne powder (optional or substitute for green chilies)
1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
Topping options: green onions, shredded parmesan or vegan cheese or hemp seeds
Preparation:
Place a pot of water on the stove and bring to a boil. Chop sweet potatoes into cubes and place in hot water. As the water comes to a boil, reduce to a simmer and allow the sweet potatoes to cook gently for approx. 10 minutes., until very well cooked. You may need to add extra water.
When the potatoes are cooked, check the water levels again. You want enough water to give the potatoes a soft texture when mashed, and may need to strain or add a little water to get the right consistency.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher. When you have the right texture, add ghee, spices and syrup (if using) and test taste to see if it is to your liking. Add topping if desired, and serve with a smile.
About the Author Briya Freeman has been creating spaces for healing and spiritual awakening since 2011. She is passionate about exploring the potentials of human consciousness in a way that unites and transcends global culture. Her background includes 20+ years of study and practice in hatha yoga, Ayurveda, Breathontology, meditation, bioenergetics and shamanism.
As a guide, she is known for an approach that is down-to-earth, intuitive and deeply seated. She can be reached at hello@briyafreeman.com
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