Considering how healthy they are, sweet potatoes are extremely underrated. Scientific study has shown that sweet potatoes are indeed healthier than white potatoes. They contain more nutrients, less calories and can be used in many recipes. When cooked right, they can be tender, sweet and filling. Learn how to bake sweet potatoes today and reap the health rewards that come with this tasty veggie.
Nutrients in Sweet Potatoes
Potatoes are a well-known source of the mineral potassium, which is needed in the body for metabolic processes and muscular health. Potassium also acts as an electrolyte, balancing out the PH of your blood and fluids. In addition to potassium, sweet potatoes are packed with iron, manganese and magnesium. These nutrients are necessary for blood oxygenation, cholesterol control and normalizing blood pressure.
Sweet potatoes have higher amounts of vitamins B, C and D than white potatoes. Eating them regularly can enhance energy, the healing of injuries and immunity. Sweet potatoes are also capable of restoring your digestive system because they contain more dietary fiber.
How to Bake Sweet Potatoes the Right Way
One of the primary reasons why sweet potatoes are not eaten as often as they should is because many people don’t know how to bake sweet potatoes properly. Sweet potatoes can be baked with the skin on or off. They can also be baked whole or cubed.
Step 1:
Make sure you rinse sweet potatoes prior to baking. Washing them beforehand helps to get rid of any dirt or pesticides left on the skin.
Step 2:
Preheat your oven to 375 F.
Step 3:
Whether you prefer to bake sweet potatoes with the skin or peeled, drizzle a bit of cooking oil on them and spread it throughout the potatoes with your hands. Ensure they are well-coated.
Step 4:
Use a fork to pierce potatoes several times. Take aluminum foil and wrap potatoes in it, sealing it to trap steam.
Step 5:
Place wrapped sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, careful that they do not touch. Cook for 30 minutes to an hour. To test for doneness, push a knife into the sweet potatoes. If it glides in effortlessly, they are ready. Serve.
How to Bake Sweet Potatoes Tips and Tricks
Sweet potatoes can be cooked in several ways. However, the best way to prepare them is by baking. Baking is preferred over boiling or steaming because helps retain the flavor that people love. Baked potatoes are also richer in texture.
As mentioned earlier, you can peel the skin or leave it on. Leaving the skin on is recommended because it helps lock in the moisture during baking. It is also favorable because the skin comes off easier after the sweet potatoes are cooked.
Once you get the hang of how to bake sweet potatoes, go ahead and add them as a side dish for your meals. You can use them in the place of white potatoes to get more nutrients and natural sweetness. Baked sweet potatoes also make lovely desserts and are best served with homemade butter.
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