Are you looking for a simple yet impressive side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! These roasted sweet potatoes with a brown sugar glaze are incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious option for your dinner table. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
-
Toss with Flavor: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, ensuring they're evenly coated. Then, add the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Gently toss again to combine all the delicious ingredients.
-
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 crispiness. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. The brown sugar will create a beautiful glaze as they roast.
-
Serve & Enjoy: Once roasted, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These roasted sweet potatoes make a wonderful accompaniment to roasted chicken, pork, or fish. They're equally delicious as a simple side dish for a vegetarian meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- Sweet Potato Selection: Choose firm, heavy sweet potatoes without bruises or soft spots for optimal results.
- Even Cubing: Consistent sweet potato cube sizes ensure even cooking. Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding prevents proper browning and can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer to check for doneness. The sweet potatoes should reach an internal temperature of 210°F (99°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the baking sheet during roasting for an aromatic touch.
- Citrus Twist: A squeeze of orange or lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes and the amount of added sugar. A general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Vitamin A: 20-30% of the daily recommended value
These roasted sweet potatoes with brown sugar glaze are a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. The recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, making it a versatile and healthy side dish you'll return to again and again. Enjoy this simple homemade cooking delight!