Japanese Sweet Potato Bars

Introduction

Japanese Sweet Potato Bars

Autumn in Japan is a great time to warm up with satsumaimo, Japanese sweet potato. Although satsumaimo is available year round, there’s something special about eating this healthy, naturally sweet root as the weather cools.

Satsumaimo are high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, provide a good source of energy, a great source of vitamins (especially vitamin A), minerals, potassium, iron, and copper, and contain all the essential amino acids that our bodies need. Although they taste delicious, they’re naturally low in ​fat, high in fiber​ and ​contain no cholesterol, making it a great alternative if you’re craving some carbs.

These healthy bars mainly rely on the sweet potatoes for their sweetness so don’t expect something super sweet! I made them for my postpartum recovery so that I could refrigerate easily and snack on when I started feeling peckish. They also contain heart-healthy nuts, dates and coconut oil.

Looking for something sweeter and richer? I also have a recipe for chewy, gluten-free sweet potato brownies!

• Satsumaimo (Japanese sweet potatoes), pureed, 1 cup
• Coconut flour, 2 tbsp. 
• Coconut oil, 1/3 cup
• Baking powder, 1 tsp. 
• Maple syrup, 2 tbsp. 
• Dried dates, 4
• Almonds and cashews (or nuts of your choice), a handful
• Cinnamon, 1 tsp.
• Nutmeg, 1/2 tsp. 
• Salt, a dash