Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s also surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This sweet potato and bacon recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, satisfying and simple. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying weekend brunch, or even a delightful side dish for your next gathering. Get ready to elevate your everyday meals with this easy, delicious, and surprisingly healthy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Make sure they’re relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan. Set the bacon aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Season and Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the sweet potatoes evenly with the spices and oil.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Combine and Serve: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, stir in the crispy bacon. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!
Tips for Sweet Potato and Bacon Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of sweet potatoes, you might need to cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a less spicy dish, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: For a sweeter twist, drizzle a tablespoon or two of maple syrup over the sweet potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, thanks to the sweet potatoes. The bacon adds protein and flavor. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient measurements.
This sweet potato and bacon recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors! It's a surefire way to elevate your homemade cooking and impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!