Sweet Potatoes, Simply Cooked - Cook With Brenda Gantt (2024)

• July 21, 2023
• 5:21 am

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and delicious root vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. Whether you want a quick snack or plan to use them in other recipes, sweet potatoes are easy to cook and require minimal effort. In this recipe, we’ll explore three simple methods to prepare sweet potatoes – baking, boiling (or steaming), and microwaving. Each method yields delightful results, allowing you to enjoy the natural sweetness of this nutritious vegetable.

Total Servings: 4

Total Time: 1 hour or less

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 large or 4 medium sweet potatoes (approximately 1 1/2 to 2 pounds total)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

METHOD 1: BAKING

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash the sweet potatoes and pierce each one with a thin-bladed knife in a few places.
3. Place the sweet potatoes on a foil-lined baking pan and bake for about an hour, turning them once during cooking.
4. Once they are very tender, remove them from the oven.
5. Serve immediately, optionally adding some butter, salt, and pepper for added flavor.

METHOD 2: BOILING AND STEAMING

1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into large chunks.
2. Cook the sweet potato chunks according to the instructions for “Just-Tender Boiled or Steamed Root Vegetables or Tubers” (pages 239–240) in your cookbook. This process usually takes about 20 minutes or less, so be careful not to overcook them, as they may fall apart.
3. Once they are just tender, drain any excess water.
4. Season the sweet potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.

METHOD 3: MICROWAVING

1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into large chunks.
2. Place the sweet potato chunks on a microwave-safe plate or in a glass baking dish.
3. Add a couple of tablespoons of water (and a little butter if desired) to the dish.
4. Cover the dish and microwave on high for at least 10 minutes or until the sweet potatoes become soft and tender.
5. Once done, carefully remove the cover (steam may escape) and let them cool slightly before serving.

TIPS FOR COOKING SWEET POTATOES:

• Selecting Sweet Potatoes: When choosing sweet potatoes at the grocery store or market, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free from any soft spots or bruises. The skin should be free from blemishes, and the color should be vibrant.
• Cleaning: Before cooking, make sure to wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
• Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potatoes. To check for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of the potato – if it goes in easily, they are ready.
• Enhance Flavors: While the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes is delicious on its own, consider enhancing the flavors by adding various seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for a sweeter touch.
• Butter or Olive Oil: When serving the baked sweet potatoes, consider adding a small pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil over the top for added richness and flavor.
• Microwaving Times: Microwaving times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage and the size of the sweet potato chunks. To ensure even cooking, try to cut the sweet potato chunks into relatively uniform sizes.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the sweet potatoes, as they can become mushy and lose their natural flavors and nutrients.
• Meal Preparation: Cooked sweet potatoes can be easily stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making them a great option for meal prep. Use them in salads, bowls, wraps, or as a side dish.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to prepare sweet potatoes ahead of time, you can freeze them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Versatile Pairings: Sweet potatoes pair well with various ingredients, such as black beans, kale, spinach, quinoa, chicken, or tofu. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to create delicious and nutritious meals.

Sweet potatoes, simply cooked using any of these three methods, make for a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you prefer the oven-baked simplicity, the convenience of microwaving, or the tenderness of boiled or steamed sweet potatoes, this recipe offers versatile options to enjoy this delicious vegetable. Experiment with different seasonings and pairings to create a delightful sweet potato dish that suits your taste buds perfectly.

I am a self-taught cook. I started cooking around 18 years old. I stood in the kitchen and watched my mother, who was my biggest inspiration at the time, cook.