Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Sweet Potatoes

1. 1

   Preheat and prepare potatoes

   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well. Pat dry with a towel. If using potatoes of uneven size, cut the larger ones in half lengthwise so pieces roast in roughly the same time; otherwise leave whole.

2. 2

   Pierce and oil

   Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato several times if roasting whole (this allows steam to escape). Rub each potato with 2 tablespoons olive oil, ensuring an even coating. Place on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.

3. 3

   Season

   In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled sweet potatoes and rub gently so spices adhere. If halved, place cut side up on the baking sheet.

4. 4

   Roast

   Roast in the preheated oven for 35–50 minutes depending on size: whole medium potatoes about 45–50 minutes, halved potatoes 35–40 minutes. Roast until a skewer or knife inserted into the center meets little resistance and the skins are slightly blistered.

5. 5

   Finish with butter and maple

   Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves. When potatoes are done, remove from oven and, if halved, optionally score the flesh with a knife. Spoon the butter-maple mixture over each hot potato so it melts into the flesh.

6. 6

   Serve

   Transfer potatoes to plates or a serving platter. Garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley if using. Taste and adjust with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot as a side dish.