Smoked Sweet Potatoes Recipe – Perfect Flavor for Fall
As the smell of smoke fills the air, you know something delicious is about to come off the grill. And if sweet potatoes happen to be your go-to BBQ side dish, then you’re in for a real treat with this recipe. Smoked sweet potatoes are a unique and flavorful way to prepare this classic comfort food. These tender smoked sweet potatoes will turn heads at any cookout or dinner party, and they are sure to leave you wanting more.
Sweet potatoes are already a popular choice on the dinner table because of their natural sweetness and versatility. By smoking them, we add a whole new depth of flavor that can’t be achieved through any other cooking method. This recipe takes around two hours from start to finish, but the result is a tender and smoky side dish that’s worth every minute.
In this recipe article, I’ll be sharing with you everything you need to know about how to make mouth-watering smoked sweet potatoes. From the ingredients list to the step-by-step instructions, I’ll guide you through the process of creating this perfectly smoked side dish. To get started, preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and let’s dive into how to create your new favorite side dish- smoked sweet potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish that will steal the show at any meal, look no further than smoked sweet potatoes. These succulent and smoky spuds have a unique flavor and texture that make them an irresistible addition to any menu.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment (like a smoker or grill), you can create a dish that your family and friends will rave about for days. And because sweet potatoes are so nutritious, you can feel good about adding this recipe to your meal plan.
But what really sets these smoked sweet potatoes apart is their flavor. The gentle smoke from the smoker gives them a deep, rich flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes themselves. And when you add in other flavors like cinnamon, maple, and butter, you get a complex and irresistible combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want an easy and delicious side dish for your own meals, smoked sweet potatoes are the way to go. So why not try this recipe out today and see what all the fuss is about? Trust me, once you taste these delectable spuds, you’ll be hooked for life.
Ingredient List
The ingredient list for these smoked sweet potatoes is surprisingly simple, making it easy to prepare even for novice BBQ chefs. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Sweet Potatoes: This recipe calls for sweet potatoes, which will be smoked until they are tender and bursting with flavor.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps ensure that the sweet potatoes won’t stick to the grill grates or smoker during cooking.
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Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt and pepper draws out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while balancing out their flavors.
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Cinnamon Maple Butter: The homemade cinnamon maple butter adds another level of flavor to the already delicious smoked sweet potatoes.
Optional add-ons for variation include:
– Smoked paprika roasted sweet potatoes
– Brown sugar baked sweet potatoes
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get started with the delicious smoked sweet potatoes recipe. Before we start, we need to preheat our smoker at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the smoker is ready, it’s time to prepare the sweet potatoes.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
- Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Pierce them a few times with a fork to create a few small holes to allow smoke to infuse better.
- Rub some olive oil over all sides of the sweet potato.
Smoking Process
- Place the prepared sweet potatoes on the grill grates inside the smoker with enough space between each piece. Close the lid and let them smoke for 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, use a fork to test if they are done. Potatoes should be soft in texture when fully cooked.
- Separate any undercooked pieces and place them back in the smoker for an additional hour.
Cinnamon Maple Butter Sauce
- Mix 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 tbsp of maple syrup, and 1 tsp of cinnamon powder into a saucepan.
- Heat it over medium heat until everything is well combined and then take it off the heat.
Serving
- When your sweet potatoes are tender and juicy, remove from smoker grill carefully using BBQ tongs.
- Place them on a platter and spread cinnamon maple butter sauce generously over them
- Sprinkle some brown sugar on top for some extra sweetness!
These smoked sweet potatoes are a must-try as a side dish or main course for any BBQ party or occasion!
Substitutions and Variations
While smoked sweet potatoes are already a delicious side dish option, there are many ways to switch up the recipe and add your own personal touch. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:
– Spicy twist: If you’re a fan of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon butter mixture before brushing it onto the sweet potatoes.
– Different seasoning: Instead of cinnamon, you can use smoked paprika for a smoky and savory flavor. You could also try using other seasonings like rosemary, thyme or even ranch seasoning.
– Change up the fat: Instead of olive oil, you could use melted bacon fat or coconut oil for added flavor.
– Sweet options: If you prefer a sweeter taste, try swapping the cinnamon butter with maple syrup, honey or brown sugar.
– Change up the toppings: While cinnamon butter is a tasty topping, you could also add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. For a savory twist, top with crumbled bacon or blue cheese.
– Cook on different equipment: If you don’t have a smoker, you can still achieve similar results by roasting them in the oven. Bake them at 350 F for about an hour until they are soft and tender. You can also cook them on a pellet grill or even over charcoal on the grill.
These substitutions and variations will definitely add variety to your sweet potato recipe collection. Be creative and experiment to find the perfect combination of flavors that works for you!
Serving and Pairing
Once your smoked sweet potatoes are done, it’s time to serve them up! This delicious side dish pairs well with almost anything, making them a versatile addition to any meal. The smoky flavor of the sweet potatoes goes especially well with barbecue dishes, such as pulled pork or smoked brisket. The sweetness of the potatoes also compliments spicy foods nicely.
For an even more decadent taste, try topping your smoked sweet potatoes with cinnamon maple butter or a sprinkle of brown sugar. These toppings will enhance the already great flavors and create a tantalizing aroma that will have your taste buds begging for more.
As for pairing, these smoked sweet potatoes would pair well with a variety of different drinks. A nice cold beer or a glass of red wine would contrast well with the earthy sweetness of the dish. Alternatively, if you prefer cocktails, try mixing up a bourbon-based beverage with some cinnamon flavors to compliment the dish’s taste.
Overall, this dish is perfect for a family BBQ or any casual dining experience. It’s quick and easy to make, and always boasts fantastic results. So next time you fire up your grill or smoker, don’t forget to add these mouthwatering smoked sweet potatoes to your menu!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re planning to prep your smoked sweet potatoes ahead of time, this recipe has you covered. While these spuds are best eaten hot off the smoker or grill, they can still be reheated and stored for later consumption.
To make ahead, simply follow the instructions to smoke your sweet potatoes as normal. Once fully cooked, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them in foil. Store the sweet potatoes in your refrigerator for up to three days.
When it’s time for reheating, there are two options: oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake until heated through, approximately 10-15 minutes. For the microwave method, place the sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water or broth. Microwave on high heat for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Just keep in mind that reheating may slightly change the texture of your smoked sweet potatoes, so it’s best to consume them fresh off the smoker whenever possible.
Whether reheating or eating freshly smoked, these savory and sweet smoked sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit as a side dish at any barbecue or fall gathering.
Tips for Perfect Results
Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect results with your smoked sweet potatoes recipe:
1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes come in different varieties, and some are better suited for smoking than others. I recommend choosing the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes with a firm texture and smooth skin. These types of sweet potatoes will hold up well to the smoking process and won’t turn mushy.
2. Pierce the Skin Before Smoking
To allow the smoke to penetrate the flesh of the sweet potatoes, pierce them several times with a fork before placing them in the smoker. This will also prevent any bursting or splitting of the potatoes while smoking.
3. Preheat Your Smoker to 225 Degrees Fahrenheit
Before placing your sweet potatoes in the smoker, preheat it to 225 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. This temperature is perfect for maintaining a slow-cooked process that will give you tender and flavorful smoked sweet potatoes.
4. Keep Your Smoker Closed
Once you’ve placed your sweet potatoes on the grill grates of your smoker, close the lid and smoke them for two hours at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Resist opening the lid too often as it can cause fluctuations in temperature and add more cooking time than needed.
5. Use Butcher Paper, Not Foil
When wrapping your smoked sweet potatoes in butcher paper during their resting period, avoid using foil as it can make them soggy. Butcher paper allows air to circulate, which keeps your sweet potatoes soft yet firm.
6. Experiment with Different Flavors
While cinnamon maple butter is an excellent topping for smoked sweet potatoes, you can experiment with different flavors to suit your taste buds. Try adding a smoky paprika roasted sweet potato flavor or tossing in some brown sugar and cinnamon butter for a baked sweet potato vibe.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make tender, juicy, perfectly smoked sweet potatoes that will have everyone raving about them at your next BBQ party!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be some questions that come up along the way. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers to help ensure your success with smoking these delicious sweet potatoes.
How long to smoke potatoes at 225?
Let’s get those potatoes smoking on the grill at a low, gentle heat of 225 degrees Fahrenheit for about 2 hours, or until they become soft and fork tender. Once they’re ready, you can get creative with toppings to give them some extra flavor.
How long should you smoke potatoes?
First things first, let’s get that smoker preheated to a nice low temperature of 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it’s heated up and ready to go, it’s time to move onto the potatoes. Begin by giving them a good scrub and dry before getting started on seasoning.
Once the potatoes are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to get them onto the grill grates of the smoker. Carefully place them down and close the lid, making sure to keep a watchful eye on them as they cook. It should take around 2 hours or so for the potatoes to smoke to perfection. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve softened up and easily pierce through with a metal fork.
And there you have it, perfectly smoked potatoes ready to be served up to your eagerly waiting guests.
Why soak sweet potatoes before cooking?
When it comes to frying sliced sweet potatoes, soaking them before cooking is optional, but it can lead to a crispier final result. Soaking the sweet potatoes in cold water helps to release their starch, which makes it easier for them to become crispy when fried. This trick can come in handy when aiming for perfectly crispy sweet potato fries or chips.
How do you make Patti Labelle sweet potatoes?
To prepare the sweet potatoes, fill a large stockpot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the sweet potatoes in the stockpot and let them cook for approximately 25 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the stockpot and allow them to cool. After they have cooled, take off the skin and put the sweet potatoes into a large bowl. While they’re still lukewarm, blend in the butter, cream, agave, cinnamon, and salt. Mash them into a smooth and consistent texture. Finally, top it off with a sprinkle of orange zest.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, smoked sweet potatoes are a game-changer that will elevate your grill game to the next level. This recipe is a perfect side dish for any occasion or celebration, adding some savory and sweetness to your meal. By following the instructions and tips provided above, you can quickly become a pit master and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Not only does this recipe bring out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, but it also infuses them with a smoky flavor that adds depth and complexity to the dish. The cinnamon maple butter topping takes it to another level of deliciousness, making it a perfect accompaniment to any protein or as a stand-alone dish.
Additionally, there are many variations and substitutions that you can make to this recipe to customize it according to your liking. Whether through using different spices or grilling techniques, you can make this recipe your own and experiment with different flavors.
So why not give this recipe a try? It’s a perfect combination of healthy and delightful, packed with flavor and nutrition. Impress your loved ones with this mouth-watering dish that will create memories for many cookouts to come.
Smoked Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 sweet potatoes
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Bake or microwave sweet potatoes in their skins until tender; brush vegetable oil lightly onto potatoes.
- Cut a cross on top of each potato and squeeze to push the orange flesh up; place each potato on a piece of foil on rack in smoker.
- Smoke for 30 minutes.
YOUR OWN NOTE
Nutrition
Shara @The Bird BBQ
Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.