Sometimes, it's the simple things. This sweet potato recipe is so yummy and simple, but hinges on the use of a key spice blend: baharat. Baharat is a middle eastern spice blend that is sweet and savory: coriander, cumin, nutmeg, paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves...it's a blend close to relatives like Indian Garam Masala (which would never use nutmeg or paprika) and Ras Al Hanout (which leans more savory with the addition of some heat). Recipes like this highlight my love of a great spice blend. You can literally throw it on anything, and a humble ingredient transforms! Can't find baharat? The blends I mentioned before - garam masala and ras al hanout - would be equally lovely replacements. 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss sweet potato strips in olive oil and maple syrup. Then toss with baharat. Lay on baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake for 16-22 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender but still firm, not mushy. Mix dip ingredients together and that's it!

Serves 2 as an appetizer or side. 

Active time: 10 minutes. Total time: 30 minutes.