Sweet potatoes are a versatile staple in any kitchen, offering a delightful mix of sweetness and earthiness. Perfectly roasted, they become caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, creating an irresistible dish. This recipe elevates the humble sweet potato to a new level of deliciousness, making it a must-try for any meal. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on their own, these roasted sweet potatoes promise to be a hit at your table.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into ½-inch cubes.
- For plain roasted sweet potatoes, place the cubes on a large sheet pan. Drizzle melted coconut oil, salt, and brown sugar over them, then toss to ensure all pieces are coated and spread them in a single layer.
- For seasoned roasted sweet potatoes, arrange the cubes on a large sheet pan. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and garlic powder, tossing to coat evenly, and ensure the potatoes are in a single layer.
- Roast the sweet potatoes for a total of 27-35 minutes, flipping them every 10-15 minutes to promote even cooking and caramelization. Aim for a golden-brown exterior and a tender interior.
- Check for doneness by observing the color and tenderness of the sweet potatoes. Adjust roasting time as needed based on your oven’s performance and the specific variety of sweet potatoes used.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of sweet potatoes, approximately 3 large ones (preferably Red Garnet or Jewel varieties), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil
- 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt (reduce if using table salt)
- 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar, packed
- 2 pounds of sweet potatoes, approximately 3 large ones, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt (reduce if using table salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground chili powder (consider using chipotle chili powder for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (smoked paprika may be used for added smokiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Nutritional Values
Calories: 544kcal | Carbohydrates: 127.6g | Protein: 9.6g | Fat: 18.4g | Sodium: 1497.2mg | Fiber: 18g | Sugar: 31.2g
FAQ
- Do I need to boil sweet potatoes before roasting them?
- Boiling sweet potatoes before roasting isn’t necessary and may negatively impact their flavor. It also adds extra steps and dishes to clean, so it’s best to skip this step.
- Is it necessary to peel sweet potatoes prior to roasting?
- Peeling sweet potatoes is recommended for this particular recipe as it enhances texture and flavor. However, leaving the skin on is fine when making dishes like sweet potato wedges.
- What is the cooking time for roasted sweet potatoes?
- When roasted at 425°F, sweet potato chunks cut into ½-inch pieces typically take between 27-35 minutes to cook.
- How should I store leftover roasted sweet potatoes?
- Leftover roasted sweet potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be kept for up to four days. To restore crispiness, reheat them in the oven or air fryer.
- What type of sweet potatoes is best for roasting?
- Red Garnet and Jewel sweet potatoes are ideal for roasting due to their creamy texture and natural sweetness. Avoid the drier tan or purple-skinned varieties.
Tips
- Choose the Right Variety: Opt for orange or red-skinned sweet potatoes like Red Garnet or Jewel for a sweeter taste and creamy texture. Avoid tan or purple-skinned varieties, as they tend to be drier.
- Use a Large Sheet Pan: Ensure the sweet potato cubes are spread out in a single layer on a large sheet pan to prevent steaming and promote proper roasting. This helps achieve crispy, caramelized edges.
- Toss Regularly During Cooking: Flip the sweet potatoes every 10-15 minutes while roasting at 425°F to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Monitor the color and tenderness to know when they’re done.
- Season to Taste: Experiment with different seasoning blends to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder.
Equipment
- Large Sheet Pan (15×21 inch recommended)
- Vegetable Peeler
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
