Purple sweet potatoes are not just a feast for the eyes; they are packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and a naturally sweet flavor that makes them a fantastic ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you roast, mash, bake, or blend them, purple sweet potatoes add a unique twist to your meals. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best purple sweet potato recipes to delight your taste buds while nourishing your body.
Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 large purple sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
Instructions :
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Wash and peel the purple sweet potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized cubes.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
Step 4: Spread the potatoes evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Serve hot as a delicious side dish or snack.
Purple Sweet Potato Mash
Ingredients:
- 3 medium purple sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk or coconut milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions :
Step 1: Peel and chop the purple sweet potatoes into chunks.
Step 2: Boil the potatoes in salted water for 20-25 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain the water and mash the potatoes with butter, salt, and a splash of milk or coconut milk for creaminess.
Step 4: Adjust seasoning and serve warm as a colorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Purple Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed purple sweet potatoes
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions :
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a pie crust and set it aside.
Step 2: Boil or steam the purple sweet potatoes until soft, then mash them into a smooth puree.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato puree, eggs, condensed milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set.
Step 5: Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy with whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
Variations
- Savory Twist: Add garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for a savory dish.
- Sweet Dessert: Blend mashed purple sweet potatoes with coconut milk and honey to create a pudding.
- Purple Sweet Potato Chips: Slice thinly, toss with olive oil and sea salt, and bake until crispy.
- Purple Sweet Potato Smoothie: Blend with banana, almond milk, and a dash of cinnamon for a nutritious drink.
Cooking Note
- The natural sweetness of purple sweet potatoes intensifies as they cook.
- They take slightly longer to cook compared to regular sweet potatoes.
- Keep their vibrant color by steaming instead of boiling them.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair roasted purple sweet potatoes with grilled meats or tofu.
- Serve mashed purple sweet potatoes with Thanksgiving or holiday meals.
- Enjoy purple sweet potato pie with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Use purple sweet potato puree as a filling for pancakes or crepes.
Helpful Tips
- Store uncooked purple sweet potatoes in a cool, dark place.
- For the best texture, let mashed potatoes sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Baking brings out a richer flavor compared to boiling.
- Use a food processor for an ultra-smooth pie filling.
Prep Time:
10-15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20-50 minutes (depending on the recipe)
Total Time:
30-65 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150-250 (varies by recipe)
- Protein: 2-5g
- Sodium: 50-150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-50g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Sugars: 5-10g
Related Recipes :
- Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Garlic Butter Sauce
- Perfect Candied Yams Recipe
- Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
FAQs
Q: Can I substitute regular sweet potatoes for purple sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, but you will lose the unique color and some of the antioxidant benefits of purple sweet potatoes.
Q: Where can I buy purple sweet potatoes?
A: They are often available at Asian markets, farmers’ markets, and some major grocery stores.
Q: Can I eat purple sweet potatoes raw?
A: While they are technically safe to eat raw, they are much tastier and easier to digest when cooked.
Q: How do I keep purple sweet potatoes from turning brown?
A: If peeling in advance, soak them in water to prevent oxidation.
Conclusion
Purple sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. Whether roasted, mashed, baked into a pie, or blended into a smoothie, they offer a beautiful and healthy twist to your favorite recipes. Try these delicious purple sweet potato recipes today and add some color and flavor to your meals!
