Are you craving a comforting yet healthy meal that's quick to make? Look no further! This sweet potatoes in skillet recipe is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that are surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It’s packed with flavor, naturally sweet, and a fantastic source of healthy nutrients. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and wholesome homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1 inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional additions: 1/2 cup cooked black beans, 1/2 cup corn kernels, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking. This ensures they cook through nicely and don’t burn before they’re tender.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic burn; it will make the dish bitter.
Step 3: Adding Spices and Sweet Potatoes
Add the smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds to toast the spices slightly. This step enhances the flavors significantly. Then, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the skillet and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
Stir the sweet potatoes to coat them evenly with the oil and spices. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. If they seem to be drying out too much, add a tablespoon or two of water.
Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Dish
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy this simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sweet Potatoes
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free from bruises.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: If you have a large quantity of sweet potatoes, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Add other vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potato Skillet: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory Skillet: Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory combination.
- Hearty Sweet Potato Skillet: Add cooked black beans, corn, or other legumes for extra protein and fiber. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese also adds a lovely salty tang.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7g
This sweet potato skillet recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and nutritious dish the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the satisfying feeling of creating a wholesome homemade meal!