Sweet potato chard wraps

For a healthy and satisfying take on tacos, I have added sweet potato and substituted chard for taco shells.

Photo by Alpha (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Sweet potatoes are prized for their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as their high levels of beta-carotene, which helps protect cells from damage. Dark, green leafy vegetables, such as chard, contain high levels of B-vitamins, which are vital for maintaining neurologic function. Rich in slow-digesting carbohydrates, protein and fiber, beans are considered a low Glycemic Index (GI) food. This means they help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, black beans are a rich source of phytonutrients and flavonoids. 

Prep
1 large shallot
2 cloves of garlic
1 lime
1 can black beans, or 2 cups cooked beans
1 large sweet potato
1 bunch chard
1 avocado
¼ cup cilantro

Peel and finely chop shallot and garlic. Juice lime. Rinse and drain beans.  Grate sweet potato, leaving skin on.  Cut the chard leaves from the stems, set aside. Finely chop chard stems.  Peel, pit and slice avocado. Roughly chop cilantro.

Filling
1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 teaspoons curry powder
½ teaspoon turmeric
2 teaspoons cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup water

Sauté garlic and shallot in coconut oil until shallot is soft. Add spices and sauté a few minutes longer, stirring constantly.
 
Add sweet potatoes, chard stems, lime juice and water; cover and simmer until sweet potatoes are nearly done, adding more water if necessary and stirring occasionally. Add in black beans and continue to cook until beans are warm and liquid is gone.

Wraps
Rinse chard leaves, but don’t dry them.
 
Heat a dry skillet, place leaves individually or a few at a time on skillet and cover. They will steam with the water left on the leaves from rinsing. Watch them carefully; it only takes about a minute!

Serve
Wrap a few spoonsful of the filling in each leaf. Garnish with avocado and cilantro.
 
Preparation: 30 minutes
Serves: 4