We all know the nutritional benefits of indulging in purple sweet potatoes. From the first bite, sweet potatoes take you on a culinary experience of texture and sweetness. They are also great in terms of range, allowing you to enjoy them in many different shapes adding their own specialty to each dish it served with.  

Although tasty, sweet potatoes can be a bit of a trial and error when it comes to finding the right method on how to prepare them. Whether choosing to bake, fry or roast your sweet potatoes, I have realised that practice makes perfect and of course with a few tips you’ll be a pro in no time! 

We provide some easy tips on how to bake your sweet potatoes:  

1.) Prep your sweet potatoes: 

Like most meals the easiest way to ensure the best outcome is to prep well. Wash and brush your sweet potatoes thoroughly before getting into any cutting.  

2.) Pat them down: 

Once washed, dry the sweet potatoes by patting them down with a towel.  

3.) Set the oven temperature:  

The temperature at which you cook your sweet potatoes is essential. We recommend heating the oven to a temperature of 220 degrees.  

4.) Cut sweet potatoes to desired shape:  

Cut your sweet potatoes into your desired shape. The sweet potato can be cooked whole, but this will result in a longer cooking time.  

5.) Place sweet potatoes on a tray:  

Line your sweet potatoes on a baking tray with some aluminum foil and add the spices of your choice.  

6.) Poke holes into the sweet potatoes:  

Poking holes into the sweet potatoes will help with any steam evaporation. This can be done with a fork or knife.  

7.) The baking process:  

We recommend baking your sweet potatoes for 30 minutes on one side, before turning them over to allow the other side to bake for another 30 minutes.  

The cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of the potato. Your sweet potatoes will be ready once the outer layer has a crispy look and the inside appears soft. 

Additional tips:  

• Avoiding turning your potatoes over too much.  Cooking for 30 minutes on each side should be just enough to get that yummy crispy outer layer with the soft inside.  
• Do not be afraid to explore with spices and flavour. Adding some oil or salt might be the thing that adds that extra flair. 
• Make sure the oven is at the correct temperature.

ALSO SEE: Tips for deseeding bell peppers

Feature image: Pexels