This flexible recipe uses everyday ingredients often available at a Redwood Empire Food Bank food distribution, such as sweet potatoes, canned or dry beans, peanut butter, and apples. Availability varies by site and distribution day, so use what you have and get creative!
Recipe at a Glance
Makes: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
Total Time: 55–70 minutes
Ingredients
Base
2 sweet potatoes
1 teaspoon oil, if available
Pinch of salt, optional
Option 1: Sweet Cinnamon Apple
1 apple, diced
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons oats
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
Option 2: Savory Bean & Veggie
1 cup canned or cooked dry beans
½ cup canned corn or other available vegetables
½ cup diced tomatoes, fresh or canned and drained
¼ cup shredded cheese
Salt, pepper, or other seasonings, if available
Instructions
1. Bake the sweet potatoes. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Scrub the potatoes, pierce them several times with a fork, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 45–60 minutes, until soft. (For a quicker option, microwave each potato for 5–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender.)
2. Prepare the sweet topping. Dice the apple. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water and cinnamon, if available. Microwave for 2–3 minutes until softened, or cook in a small pan until tender.
3. Prepare the savory topping. Drain and rinse the canned beans. Warm them in a pan with the corn and tomatoes or other available vegetables. Season to taste and cook until heated through.
4. Open the potatoes. Slice each baked sweet potato lengthwise and gently fluff the inside with a fork.
5. Make it sweet. Top one potato with the warm apples, peanut butter, and oats. Add a little honey or maple syrup if desired.
6. Make it savory. Fill the second potato with the bean and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with cheese if available, and add any seasonings you enjoy.
7. Serve and enjoy! Choose your favorite version, or make both for a great savory and sweet meal.
Final Thoughts
Use what you have: Pears can replace apples, and almost any canned or fresh vegetable can work in the savory version.
Add protein: Beans and peanut butter both provide plant-based protein. Canned chicken can also be added to the savory potato if available.
Stretch your ingredients: One can of beans and a small amount of produce can help make a filling meal for two.
Keep it flexible: Ingredients at Redwood Empire Food Bank Distribution Sites vary by location, season, and distribution day. This recipe is designed around adaptable pantry staples and produce, not a guarantee that every ingredient will be available.
A little inspiration goes a long way: With a sweet potato and a few everyday ingredients, you can create a meal that is comforting, filling, and completely your own.
Got a favorite recipe using ingredients from our distribution sites? We want to hear from you! Submit your recipe and help inspire others in our community to cook healthy, delicious meals at home.
