Smoky Lentil Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Step 1

Preheat oven to 450°F. Poke each sweet potato a few times with the prongs of a fork. Wrap each potato in foil. Place on center oven rack and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until fork tender.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet with a fitted lid over medium heat. Add shallot; cook 3 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook 2 minutes, until the tomato paste turns brick red and garlic is aromatic. Stir in lentils, smoked paprika, coriander, and chili flakes; stir to coat. Cook 2 minutes to lightly toast lentils and bloom spices. Add broth, salt, and pepper; increase heat and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and gently simmer for 22 to 25 minutes, until lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed. (If the mixture needs more liquid, stir in up to ½ cup water.) Once cooked, stir in vinegar, chopped walnuts, and parsley.

Step 3

Slice sweet potatoes down the center, lengthwise. Fill evenly with lentil mixture. Top with a generous spoonful of yogurt and additional chopped fresh parsley. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil and sliced avocado, if desired.