Purple Sweet Potato Smoothie

Name: Purple Sweet Potato Smoothie
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 ⅓ cups unsweetened almond milk; 3 tablespoons purple sweet potato powder; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 cup frozen blueberries

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Made with just 4 ingredients, this purple sweet potato smoothie is rich in antioxidants and fiber. Get the step-by-step recipe, plus tips and ideas for add-ins.

Purple sweet potato smoothie in a glass.

Recipe Highlights

This purple sweet potato smoothie is a pureed fruit drink made with purple sweet potato powder.
The powder, which is made of dehydrated sweet potatoes, is a popular ingredient in snacks and drinks.
Thanks to the purple sweet potato powder and blueberries, this smoothie is packed with antioxidants. Both ingredients give the drink a pretty purple color.
A quick and easy recipe, it’s made in 5 minutes with 4 ingredients.

5 Purple Sweet Potato Smoothie Benefits

1. Provides Antioxidants

Purple sweet potato and blueberries get their blue-purple color from plant pigments called anthocyanins.

Anthocyanins have an antioxidant effect in the body. This means they fight oxidative stress. It’s important to reduce oxidative stress because it can lead to disease over time.

2. Supports Brain Health

As you get older, oxidative stress and inflammation can increase the risk of brain disease. The anthocyanins in this smoothie might help lower this risk. Anthocyanins work by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation.

Chia seeds, which are also in this smoothie, contain omega-3 fatty acids. These are anti-inflammatory fats needed for good brain function.

3. Helps Digestion

Blueberries are rich in fiber, a key nutrient for digestive health. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and keeps your gut healthy. Regular intake of fiber can reduce the risk of digestive issues.

4. Increases Fullness

The fiber in this smoothie will keep you full for a long time. That’s because fiber takes a long time to digest, which causes satiety. Plus, purple sweet potato contains a carbohydrate called resistant starch. This type of carb “feeds” the good gut bacteria, keeping them healthy.

5. Enhances Heart Health

Thanks to the fiber in blueberries, this drink is good for your heart. Fiber can help lower high cholesterol, a top risk factor for heart disease. The healthy fats in chia seeds might help reduce cholesterol.

Even the anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins can help, as inflammation can contribute to heart disease.

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients for a purple sweet potato smoothie on a gray table.

Unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk has a nutty but neutral flavor. It tastes good with many fruits. You can also use oat milk, hemp milk, or any other milk you like.
Purple sweet potato powder: Made of dehydrated and crushed purple sweet potatoes, this powder adds flavor and color. Note that purple sweet potatoes aren’t the same as taro, also known as ube. It’s a different root vegetable and sometimes called the Okinawan sweet potato.
Chia seeds: Chia seeds have a thickening effect in smoothies. They’re rich in anti-inflammatory fats, protein, and fiber.
Frozen blueberries: Avoid using fresh blueberries, which will make the smoothie too watery. Frozen berries are best for making a refreshing and cold drink without using ice.

For full ingredients and detailed instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Variations

Leafy greens: Add a handful of baby spinach or kale for even more nutrients. These ingredients are high in antioxidants and fiber. Leafy greens work well in berry-based smoothies. The sweetness of the berries balances the earthy flavor of the greens. Always wash leafy greens before using them and remove any thick stems.

Protein powder: Make this smoothie even more filling by adding protein powder. It’s also good for building muscle after a workout. Use unflavored protein powder if you want the purple sweet potato flavor shine. However, vanilla protein powder will taste great in this smoothie too.

Collagen powder: If you want to focus on skin and joint health, use powdered collagen instead. Most collagen powders are unflavored.

Seeds: Instead of chia seeds, you can use hemp seeds or flax seeds. Both options will add a nutty flavor and plant-based protein, just like chia seeds. Use 1 or 2 tablespoons per smoothie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chia seeds, purple sweet potato powder and almond milk in a blender.

Step 1: Put almond milk, purple sweet potato powder, and chia seeds into the blender.

Always pour in liquids into the blender first.

Blueberries, chia seeds, purple sweet potato powder and almond milk in a blender.

Step 2: Add frozen blueberries.

Heavier ingredients go into the blender last.

Purple sweet potato smoothie blended together.

Step 3: Blend until smooth. Start on low speed, then increase to high.

Purple sweet potato smoothie being poured in a cup.

Step 4: Pour into a cup. Serve immediately.

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Blender Tips

Load ingredients from lightest to heaviest.

When adding ingredients to your blender, don’t do it in a random order. Start with the lightest items, then work your way up to the heaviest. This is important for a smooth blend.

The first ingredients should be the liquid and liquid add-ins, like date syrup. Next, add any powders, seeds, or nut butters, followed by leafy greens and fresh fruit. Finish with frozen fruit or ice.

Begin on low speed, then increase to high.

Avoid blending on high speed as soon as you start the blender. This can make it difficult for the blades to properly break down the ingredients. Instead, blend on low first for a few seconds, then go high. This will prevent your blender’s motor from overheating.

Move ingredients around with a tamper.

While the blades are moving, insert a blender tamper through the lid and move it in a circle, hitting 4 sides of the container. This will push the ingredients toward the blades, ensuring everything is evenly pureed. It’s one of the easiest way to avoid air pockets.

Remove leftover smoothie with a blade scraper.

After pouring out the smoothie, use a blade scraper to remove every last drop. This will help you avoid food waste. A thin spatula also works.

Expert Tips

If you’re freezing your own blueberries, toss any pieces that are mushy or discolored. Only use berries that are firm, deep blue, and plump.
For a sweeter smoothie, add 1 tablespoon date syrup. Another option is to add a chopped Medjool date.
Add an extra splash of the almond milk if the smoothie is too thick. Blend for 10 seconds to combine.
Save leftover smoothie in an airtight mason jar for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. Stir the drink before enjoying, as the ingredients might separate.

Questions You May Have

Is purple sweet potato good for you?

Purple sweet potato, like other root vegetables, is very healthy. It’s high in antioxidants and essential vitamins.

Can I use other types of milk?

Yes. Feel free to use any milk you like, including dairy milk or plant-based options. Examples include soy milk, oat milk, and hemp milk.

Do I need to add ice?

If you like thicker smoothies, you can add a few ice cubes in addition to the frozen blueberries. Don’t overdo it, which can dilute the flavor of the smoothie.

If you tried this Purple Sweet Potato Smoothie recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and let me know how you like it in the comments below.