This Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potato is a tasty combination of sweet and spicy. The honey adds a nice sweetness, while the chili gives it a fun kick. It’s a wonderful side dish!
I love how easy it is to prepare—just bake the sweet potatoes, drizzle with honey, sprinkle some chili, and voilà! They are perfect with any meal or just as a snack. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! They add natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes, although the flavor will be less sweet.
Honey: This provides the sweet touch. If you’re vegan, you can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness without using honey.
Chili Powder: Adjust this to your liking! You could use cayenne for more heat or smoked paprika for a different flavor. If you prefer milder spices, try using a little paprika or Italian seasoning instead.
Olive Oil: It helps the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully. You can use any cooking oil you have on hand, like avocado oil or canola oil.
Cilantro: This adds a fresh pop of flavor on top. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onion works too!
How Do You Get Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Soft and Flavorful?
Getting your sweet potatoes just right can be a bit tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfectly soft and full of flavor:
- Make sure to score the flesh of each sweet potato. This helps with even cooking and allows the honey and spices to penetrate.
- Using a baking tray lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures a nice roast without drying them out. If they seem too firm after 50 minutes, give them a little extra time.
- Let them cool slightly before serving; this helps the flavors settle in!
Enjoy creating a delightful portion of baked honey chili sweet potatoes that everyone will love!
Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potato
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
Time Estimate
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40-50 minutes to bake. So, plan for about an hour to enjoy these lovely sweet potatoes from start to finish—a perfect addition to any meal!
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the sweet potatoes roast perfectly!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. Cut and Score
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Then, score the flesh in a diamond pattern—this helps them cook evenly and allows the flavors to soak in, but be cautious not to cut through the skin!
4. Add Olive Oil
Brush each sweet potato half with olive oil. Make sure to get the oil into the cuts to enhance the flavor and help them caramelize.
5. Season
Sprinkle salt and chili powder evenly over each potato half. Control the chili powder based on how spicy you like it!
6. Drizzle with Honey
Now it’s time for the sweet touch! Drizzle honey generously over the tops of the sweet potatoes, letting it run into the scored parts for added flavor.
7. Bake
Place the sweet potato halves cut side up on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized on top.
8. Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like a little extra crunch.
9. Serve
Serve the warm sweet potatoes with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over them for a refreshing zing right before eating!
Enjoy your delicious Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness, you can substitute with regular potatoes. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different, and cooking times may vary.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You could also experiment with adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce drizzled on top before serving!
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wash, cut, and score the sweet potatoes in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a day. Just add the oil, seasonings, and honey right before baking to keep them fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can add a little drizzle of honey before reheating to freshen up the flavors!