Are you craving that classic, comforting taste of Boston Market's sweet potatoes, but want a healthier, perhaps slightly less sugary version? This recipe delivers that same delicious flavor without the marshmallows, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. It's easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and a fantastic way to enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings – a truly delicious and healthy meal addition!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cubed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
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Roast to Perfection: Spread the sweet potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roasting in a single layer allows for even browning and caramelization. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
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Optional Crunch: If using, stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful textural contrast.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve warm. This side dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or any other savory main course.
Tips for Sweet Potato Success:
- Sweet Potato Selection: Choose firm, heavy sweet potatoes without any bruises or soft spots.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the sweet potato cubes are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this prevents even browning and can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the sweet potatoes towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a bit more brown sugar, cinnamon, or maple syrup, depending on your taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Ginger Sweet Potatoes: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for an aromatic twist.
- Herb-Infused Sweet Potatoes: Add a tablespoon of fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy, herbaceous flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugar: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes. It's a simple, quick, and flavorful side dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the natural sweetness and deliciousness of perfectly roasted sweet potatoes!