Sweet potatoes are more versatile than many realize. They can be replace regular, white potatoes in any recipe and offer a sweet taste that their counterparts don’t. Whether you mash them or eat them whole, preparing sweet potatoes is remarkably easy. To get it right every time, make use of these helpful cooking tips and tricks.
Ways to Cook Sweet Potatoes
There are several ways to cook sweet potatoes, each with its own benefits. If you prefer to eat the potatoes whole, boiling or steaming is recommended. Baked sweet potatoes with a little seasoning make great veggie side dishes. For an accelerated cooking method, you can pop the potatoes in the microwave for convenience.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes on Stovetop
You can cook sweet potatoes in a regular pot, steamer or slow cooker.
Step 1:
Although many prefer boiling sweet potatoes whole, you can peel and cut them into cubes. Cubing the potatoes is ideal for making sweet mashed potatoes.
Step 2:
To boil, start by filling a pot with water. Bring to the boil and throw in sweet potatoes to cook until tender. If cooking on high heat, the average cooking time is 12-15 minutes. Slow-cooking sweet potatoes might take 3-4 hours.
Step 3:
Drain water and add butter and spices for taste. Serve and enjoy.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes in the Oven
Baked sweet potatoes are tender and nutritious. Baking is a recommended baking method because it holds in the flavor of both potatoes and seasoning.
Step 1:
Pre-set the oven to 400F. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean under cool running water.
Step 2:
Use a fork or knife to pierce holes on potato surfaces. Slice the sweet potatoes in half (or leave them whole) and brush skins with olive oil. It is best to leave potato skins on and remove them after they are cooked.
Step 3:
Place potatoes skin-side down on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can wrap each potato in the foil and place on a baking sheet lightly coated with cooking spray.
Step 4:
Bake sweet potatoes for 35-60 minutes if left whole. If you are baking halves, cooking time ranges between 20-45 minutes.
Step 5:
Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut open and season with salt, pepper, butter, paprika, garlic powder and any seasoning of your preference. Serve and enjoy alone or as side dish.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes in a Microwave
Step 1:
Wash sweet potatoes under cool running water, gently scrubbing the skins to remove dirt. Pierce the skin several times with a knife or fork.
Step 2:
Arrange in a microwave-friendly dish and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes or until soft. Poke with a knife or fork to check for softness.
Step 3:
Remove from microwave and cut deep slits into the surface. Allow to cool for 2-4 minutes and gently push in the potato sides to open it up. Add butter and sprinkle your choice of spices. Serve.
Marissa Jerome says
Have you ever used Philippine Sweet Potato for American Thanksgiving Sweet Potato side dish with marshmallow? Can I use our very own sweet potato? We live in Manila and would like to serve the dish to my husband on Thanksgiving Day.