This recipe provides a simple and hands-off method for cooking sweet potatoes in a slow cooker. The result is tender, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile sweet potatoes that can be used in various dishes or enjoyed on their own.
Ingredients:
- 2-4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2 to 1-inch thick pieces (as shown in the image)
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- Optional: Pinch of salt
- Optional: Pinch of cinnamon or other desired spices
Instructions:
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into relatively uniform pieces, about 1/2 to 1-inch thick. This will help them cook evenly.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, dot the sweet potatoes with butter or drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and any other spices you’d like to use, such as cinnamon for a touch of warmth.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your sweet potato slices and the specific slow cooker.
- Serve: Once cooked, the sweet potatoes are ready to be served.
Tips and Notes:
- Slice Thickness: Thicker slices will take longer to cook.
- No Liquid Needed: Generally, no extra liquid is needed in the slow cooker as the sweet potatoes release their own moisture.
- Doneness: The sweet potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative with your seasonings! Try a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or even a little brown sugar for added sweetness. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these slow-cooked sweet potatoes as a side dish, mash them, use them in casseroles, or let them cool and add them to salads. They are also great topped with butter, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.
- Storage: Leftover cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy these easy and delicious slow cooker sweet potatoes!