Welcome to our culinary haven! Today, we’re diving into the world of baked sweet potatoes—a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of the potato with savory flavors.
This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious, flavorful side dish or a standalone meal option. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these baked sweet potatoes are sure to impress your taste buds. So, let’s fire up the oven and get started!
Why Baked Sweet Potatoes?
Baked sweet potatoes are a fantastic choice for several reasons. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they also offer a myriad of health benefits. Sweet potatoes are a nutrient powerhouse, rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. This vibrant orange root vegetable helps boost your immune system, supports eye health, and promotes a healthy complexion. Plus, they taste amazing!
Recipe Details
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, roughly equally sized
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or melted extra virgin coconut oil
- 3 tablespoons Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil or plain olive oil
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced or chopped
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 500°F.
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch thick rounds.
Arrange the sweet potato rounds on a half-sheet pan, leaving space between the slices for air circulation.
Drizzle the sweet potatoes with melted butter or melted extra virgin coconut oil, followed by the Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil or plain olive oil.
Sprinkle kosher salt and ground black pepper evenly over the sweet potatoes.
Use your hands to gently toss and coat the sweet potatoes with the oils and seasonings.
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the undersides have caramelized to a beautiful deep brown.
Carefully flip the sweet potato slices and return the pan to the oven for another 15 minutes.
Flip the sweet potato slices once again and scatter the chopped or sliced garlic over them.
Pour the vegetable broth over the sweet potatoes.
Return the pan to the oven for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are completely tender and the broth has reduced to a thicker consistency.
Using a spatula, transfer the Melting Sweet Potatoes to a serving plate.
Drizzle the sauce from the pan over the sweet potatoes for added flavor.
Kitchen Equipment
To create these delicious baked sweet potatoes, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Oven
- Half sheet pan
- Vegetable peeler
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of baked sweet potatoes is their versatility. Here are a few variations you can try to spice up your dish:
- Sweet and Spicy: Sprinkle some cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper on the sweet potatoes before roasting for a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Add your favorite herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage, to the olive oil before drizzling it over the sweet potatoes.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle some maple syrup over the sweet potatoes during the final few minutes of baking for a luscious glaze.
- Cheesy Delight: Grate some cheddar cheese over the sweet potatoes in the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
A: While this recipe specifically calls for sweet potatoes, you can experiment with other varieties, such as Yukon gold or russet potatoes. However, keep in mind that the flavors and textures may differ.
Q: Can I substitute the vegetable broth with chicken or beef broth?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth. The choice is yours.
Q: Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can peel and slice the sweet potatoes in advance. Store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast them. This way, you can save time without compromising freshness.
Food and Drink Pairings
To complement the scrumptious baked sweet potatoes, consider pairing them with the following:
- Grilled chicken breast
- Pan-seared salmon
- Roasted vegetables
- Quinoa salad
For a refreshing beverage, try a chilled glass of iced tea or a fruity white wine.