Why is this recipe so beneficial?
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are abundant in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, chlorogenic acid, and coumarins. Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A in the body, crucial for eye health. Vitamin A is also vital for the formation and maintenance of healthy teeth, bones, soft tissues, mucous membranes, and skin.
Sweet potatoes are also a rich source of various vitamins and minerals with strong anti-inflammatory properties. They are high in choline, which is known for reducing inflammation in the body. Animal studies have indicated that choline can effectively manage chronic inflammation.
Among the nutrients found in sweet potatoes, magnesium stands out. Sweet potatoes are rich in magnesium, necessary for normal bodily functions, including the mitigation of stress and anxiety. With many people lacking sufficient magnesium, there has been an increase in depression, anxiety, and stress. Incorporating more sweet potatoes into the diet, such as through recipes like sweet potato tahini brownies, can boost magnesium intake and promote better mood stability.
Cacao Powder
Cacao, not to be confused with cocoa, is an excellent source of magnesium and a wealth of immune-boosting antioxidants. In fact, cacao contains 40 times the antioxidants found in blueberries, making it an exceptional food for neutralizing disease-causing free radicals in the body.
Cacao is also rich in iron, making it a superb food for building blood and helping to alleviate symptoms of anemia.
Additionally, cacao contains two mood-enhancing molecules: phenylethylamine (PEA) and anandamide. PEA is a chemical that our bodies naturally produce when excited, enhancing focus and attention. Anandamide, known as "the bliss molecule," is named for its structural similarity to THC, the active compound in cannabis.
With its disease-fighting properties, cacao is more than just a tasty treat. The prospect of enjoying sweet potato tahini brownies that are also beneficial to health is indeed compelling!
Sesame Tahini
The inclusion of tahini not only makes the brownies incredibly rich and delicious but also offers notable benefits for the body. Tahini, derived from sesame seeds, is packed with minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. It's especially rich in calcium, making it one of the top plant-based sources available.
Sesame seeds are also an excellent source of vitamins E, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B15. The B vitamins play a crucial role in regulating metabolic processes and managing stress, maintaining healthy nerves, and bolstering the immune system.
Furthermore, the iron content in tahini can help prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which is marked by reduced red blood cell counts, iron shortage, and fatigue.
Sweet Potato Tahini Brownies (Paleo, Vegan, Nut-Free)
- 2/3 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato (approximately one large sweet potato)
- 1/3 cup sesame tahini
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 2 flax eggs*
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and line a small brownie pan with parchment paper at the bottom, greasing the sides with coconut oil.
- In a bowl, using a hand mixer, or in a food processor, blend the sweet potato, tahini, and coconut sugar together. Incorporate the flax eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in all the remaining ingredients until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Keep stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze in a sealed freezer bag.
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