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Sweet & Spicy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 80 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 0h 15m
  • Cook Time: 1h 0m
  • Total Time: 1h 15m
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Sweet & Spicy Smashed Sweet Potatoes offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Baked to tender perfection, then smashed and seasoned with a vibrant blend of honey, cayenne, smoked paprika, and garlic, they deliver a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a hint of lime juice, this recipe is an easy, flavorful side dish ideal for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potatoes

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5-2 pounds)

Spice Blend

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for extra zest)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the sweet potatoes.
  2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a towel.
  3. Prick for Steam Release: Poke several holes in each sweet potato using a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing bursting.
  4. Bake Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake them in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Cool Slightly: Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes until they’re manageable to handle.
  6. Mix Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, honey, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully combined.
  7. Semi-Mash Sweet Potatoes: Slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Use a fork to mash the flesh slightly, keeping the skin intact to support the filling.
  8. Apply Spice Blend: Drizzle the prepared spice mixture evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes, ensuring thorough coverage.
  9. Add Lime Juice: Optionally, drizzle lime juice over the top for an added bright, zesty flavor.
  10. Final Bake: Return the sweet potatoes to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes until they develop a slightly crispy edge and are heated through.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your preference.
  • The lime juice is optional but adds a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness and spice.
  • Sweet potatoes are fully cooked when easily pierced with a fork; baking times may vary based on size.
  • For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Smashed potatoes can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course topping.

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Find it online: https://flavorfestkitchen.com/sweet-and-spicy-smashed-sweet-potatoes-recipe/