These chili and honey roasted sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! With a sweet and spicy combo, they are perfect for a side dish or a fun snack. Plus, that lime juice adds a zesty kick!
Whenever I make these, they disappear fast! They’re great for impressing friends, or just treating yourself to something delicious. Who knew sweet potatoes could be this exciting? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, though they vary in sweetness and cooking time.
Honey: This ingredient adds delicious sweetness. If you prefer a vegan alternative, try maple syrup or agave nectar instead. They work just as well and still give a lovely flavor!
Chili Powder: This adds heat to the dish. If you like it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicier chili blend. For a milder taste, paprika can also stand alone.
Lime Juice: The acidity from lime juice is key for balancing flavors. If you’re fresh out of limes, lemon juice is a great substitute. It adds a pleasant zing as well!
How Do You Ensure Even Roasting?
Getting your sweet potatoes perfectly roasted takes a few key steps:
- Preheat your oven well to 425°F (220°C). This helps caramelize the sugars in the sweet potatoes.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Don’t forget to flip the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking. This way, both sides get that lovely caramelization!
Make sure to monitor them closely during the final minutes to avoid burning, as they can go from perfectly caramelized to overdone quickly. Enjoy your cooking!
Chili + Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Lime Juice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the marinade, followed by 25-30 minutes of roasting time. Overall, you can enjoy these delicious roasted sweet potatoes in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it well until it’s smooth and combined. This tasty marinade will make your sweet potatoes burst with flavor!
3. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Take the sweet potato halves and place them cut-side up on your lined baking sheet. Now, use a brush or a spoon to generously spread the marinade over the flesh of each half. Make sure they’re well coated for the best taste!
4. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, flip them over to ensure they roast evenly. They should come out tender and caramelized.
5. Add the Lime Juice:
Once your sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, take them out of the oven. Drizzle fresh lime juice over the top; this adds a zesty kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the roasted sweet potatoes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your sweet and spicy roasted 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 like Yukon Gold or even butternut squash for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; regular potatoes will take a bit longer to roast until tender.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder to ½ teaspoon or use smoked paprika instead for a smokier taste without the heat. On the other hand, if you love a good kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the marinade for an extra spicy punch!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and coat them in the marinade a few hours ahead. Just cover them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. You might want to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even roasting.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their delicious caramelization!
