Are you tired of the same old boring side dishes at your summer barbecues? Look no further than this delicious Sweet and Savory Grilled Sweet Potato Recipe. Bursting with flavor, these grilled sweet potatoes are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The natural sweetness of the potatoes is enhanced by a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon, while the savory flavors come from a touch of garlic and a pinch of smoked paprika. Grilling the sweet potatoes adds a delightful smokiness and a slight char, creating a unique and irresistible dish that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and prepare to impress your guests with this delightful twist on a classic barbecue side.
Ingredients
Sweet potatoes
The star of this recipe, sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and hearty texture to your grilled dish. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
Olive oil
Olive oil not only adds a delightful flavor to the sweet potatoes but also helps prevent sticking on the grill. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for grilling.
Salt and pepper
These classic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes and provide a well-rounded taste.
Brown sugar
For a touch of sweetness, brown sugar is the perfect addition to this recipe. It adds a caramelized flavor to the sweet potatoes when grilled.
Cinnamon and nutmeg
These warm spices complement the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and bring a cozy, comforting aroma to your dish.
Butter
Adding a pat of butter to the sweet potatoes while grilling adds richness and a velvety texture, creating a truly indulgent side dish.
Preparation
Preheat the grill
To ensure even cooking and perfectly grilled sweet potatoes, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for at least 10 minutes before adding the sweet potatoes.
Prep the sweet potatoes
Start by cleaning the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, with a sharp knife, carefully slice the sweet potatoes into evenly-sized rounds or wedge shapes. This will ensure that they cook evenly on the grill.
Season the sweet potatoes
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the sweet potato slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Wrap in foil and grill
To prevent the sweet potatoes from falling through the grates and to retain moisture, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Place the foil-wrapped sweet potatoes on the preheated grill.
Baste with butter and spices
While the sweet potatoes are grilling, melt the butter in a saucepan and add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the spices are well combined. Using a basting brush, generously brush the butter mixture onto the sweet potatoes. This will add a beautiful glaze and enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Sprinkle with fresh herbs
Once the sweet potatoes are grilled to perfection, remove them from the foil and sprinkle them with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Not only will this add a burst of vibrant color, but it will also bring an extra layer of freshness to the dish.
Serve with a dipping sauce
For an extra flavor boost, serve your sweet potatoes with a delicious dipping sauce. Some options include garlic aioli, honey mustard, or a tangy yogurt dip.
Pair with grilled meat or fish
Sweet and savory grilled sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic accompaniment to any grilled meat or fish. They provide a satisfying balance to the protein and add a burst of flavors to your meal.
Enjoy as a side dish
Grilled sweet potatoes can also stand alone as a delectable side dish. Serve them alongside your favorite barbecue favorites or as part of a vegetarian or plant-based meal.
Tips and Tricks
Choose the right sweet potatoes
When selecting sweet potatoes for grilling, choose ones that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. This will ensure that they hold up well on the grill.
Slice evenly for even cooking
To ensure that your sweet potatoes cook uniformly, slice them into similar-sized pieces. This will help them cook through at the same rate and prevent some slices from being undercooked or overcooked.
Brush the grill with oil to prevent sticking
Before placing the sweet potatoes on the grill, make sure to brush the grates with some oil to prevent them from sticking. This will not only make it easier to flip the sweet potatoes but also ensure they retain their shape.
Experiment with different spices
While the recipe suggests using cinnamon and nutmeg, feel free to experiment with other spices that suit your taste. Smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder can add a smoky and spicy twist to your grilled sweet potatoes.
Grill sweet potatoes with the skin on for added flavor
Leaving the skin on the sweet potatoes while grilling adds a beautiful char and extra depth of flavor. The skin also helps to keep the sweet potatoes intact during the grilling process.
FAQs
Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?
Absolutely! Whether you use a gas grill or a charcoal grill, you can achieve delicious results with this recipe. The key is to ensure your grill is preheated and that you monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
If you don’t have access to a grill or prefer to bake your sweet potatoes, you can definitely make this recipe in the oven. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the sweet potatoes on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
To check the doneness of the sweet potatoes, carefully insert a fork into one of the slices. If it easily goes through and the sweet potato feels tender, they are ready to be removed from the grill. Avoid overcooking them as they may become mushy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and reheat them?
Grilled sweet potatoes are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. However, if you need to prep them ahead of time, you can partially grill the sweet potatoes and then reheat them on the grill or in the oven just before serving. This will help retain their texture and flavors.
Variations
Sweet and spicy grilled sweet potatoes
For those who love a little kick, try adding some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the butter mixture. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
Grilled sweet potato fries
If you’re a fan of crispy sweet potato fries, you can easily transform this recipe into grilled sweet potato fries. Simply slice the sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss them in olive oil, and grill until crispy and golden brown.
Grilled sweet potato salad
Looking for a lighter option? Turn your grilled sweet potatoes into a refreshing salad. Cube the sweet potatoes, toss them with some leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette for a flavorful and nutritious salad.
Health Benefits
High in fiber
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. By grilling them, you retain the fiber content while adding a smoky flavor.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Packed with vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes support immune function and promote healthy skin. They also contain minerals such as potassium and manganese, which are important for overall well-being.
Supports gut health
The fiber content in sweet potatoes acts as a prebiotic, providing fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for digestion and immune function.
May help regulate blood sugar levels
Although sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, they have a lower glycemic index than regular potatoes. This means they are less likely to cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Grilling them helps retain their natural sweetness without the need for added sugar.
Conclusion
Grilled sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a cozy fall dinner, these versatile side dishes are sure to impress. By following the simple steps in this recipe, you’ll create perfectly grilled sweet potatoes that are bursting with flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Serve them alongside your favorite grilled meats or fish, or enjoy them as a satisfying vegetarian option. With their health benefits and incredible taste, grilled sweet potatoes are a must-try recipe that will leave you wanting more!