Description
A simple, foolproof recipe to bake perfectly tender and flavorful sweet potatoes with a crisp skin. This method enhances the natural sweetness and is perfect as a healthy side dish or base for various toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for even baking of sweet potatoes.
- Wash Sweet Potatoes: Thoroughly wash each sweet potato under running water, scrubbing away any dirt. Then pat them completely dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- Pierce Sweet Potatoes: Using a fork, pierce each sweet potato several times. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents them from bursting in the oven.
- Prepare Potatoes (Optional): Rub each sweet potato evenly with olive oil for a crispier skin and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance flavor if desired.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the sweet potatoes directly on a baking sheet or on the oven rack. Lining the sheet with foil can help catch any drips.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the center, indicating they are cooked through and tender.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. You can customize with toppings like butter, cinnamon, or savory options as desired.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on the size of sweet potatoes; larger ones may need closer to 60 minutes.
- Using olive oil is optional but helps to achieve a crispy skin and enhanced flavor.
- You can bake sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack for better air circulation and even cooking.
- Sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days once baked.
- Try different toppings like sour cream, cheese, or roasted vegetables for variations.
