The Budget-Friendly Superfood That Deserves Avocado-Level Hype

From toast toppings to summer green smoothie recipes, avocado has been crowned the go-to ingredient for health-conscious foodies everywhere. But while the green, creamy powerhouse is basking in all of its superfood glory, there's another under-appreciated contender that deserves the same hype: sweet potatoes — a root vegetable that is not only packed with nutrients, but also much easier on the pocket.

Sweet potatoes are packed with manganese, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin C. They're also rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for healthy vision. Serving as a rich source of potassium, sweet potatoes help maintain heart health and regulate blood pressure. Despite their natural sweetness, they have a low glycemic index, making them great for steady energy and blood sugar control. But, that's not even the best part.

Despite all of these health benefits, sweet potatoes are extremely affordable. At about $3 per pound, they cost half as much as store-bought avocados do. When compared to other trendy superfoods such as spirulina or sea moss, these healthy tubers are practically a steal — making them an affordable choice if you're looking to add more superfoods to your diet. 

Being healthy and affordable is a great start, but let's be honest — it's not enough to earn avocado-level hype. To truly deserve a spot among the elite, the superfood in question also has to be tasty and versatile enough that you don't get bored eating it day after day. Sweet potatoes tick all of these boxes, striking the unique balance between naturally sweet and earthy, with a creamy texture that's both hearty and comforting. Their subtle sweetness makes them just as at home in savory dishes as in desserts. In fact, brûléed sweet potato and ice cream are a match made in heaven.

From sweet potato fries to casseroles, and delicious sweet potato dumplings to pies, sweet potatoes show up in all kinds of dishes. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized, slightly crispy edge. Boiling, on the other hand, keeps them soft and tender — perfect for mashing into creamy, smooth garlic-mashed sweet potatoes or blending into spicy sweet potato soup. Frying turns them into crispy, golden fries with a satisfying crunch, while steaming preserves their subtle flavor and delicate texture. 

Each cooking and preparation method highlights a different side of the sweet potato's versatility, making them easy to enjoy them every day in new and delicious ways. Like the avocado, sweet potatoes are one superfood you'll never get tired of — and you can enjoy them even more knowing they don't break the budget.