This recipe creates delicious and tender roasted sweet potatoes with slightly caramelized edges. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and enhances their flavor. This is a simple and healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or other cooking oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
- Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add any other optional seasonings you desire (garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs). Toss well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time (around 15 minutes) to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Check for Doneness: The sweet potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and have slightly crispy edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot as a side dish.
Tips and Notes:
- Cube Size: Aim for uniform cube sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the baking sheet will result in steamed, not roasted, potatoes.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- Sweetness Enhancement: For extra sweetness, you can drizzle a little maple syrup or honey over the potatoes before roasting or during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Storage: Leftover roasted sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet.
Enjoy these simple and delicious roasted sweet potatoes!