This Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potato is a tasty mix of sweet and spicy flavors! The sweet potatoes get all warm and soft while the honey adds a delightful touch of sweetness, and the chili gives it a nice kick.
It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun side dish. I love to enjoy it with a sprinkle of green onions on top—makes it feel fancy! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which is a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I recommend using large sweet potatoes for their sweetness and texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use butternut squash or regular potatoes, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sweet potatoes. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar works great too! Just keep in mind the flavor will slightly change.
Chili Powder: This adds the spiciness you want in this dish. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the quantity. Alternatively, try using paprika for a milder taste, or a spice blend if you prefer different flavors.
Fresh Cilantro: This gives a fresh finish to the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a great substitute, or leave it out altogether if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Tender?
Getting sweet potatoes tender and caramelized is key for this recipe. First, make sure to score the flesh, as this helps the heat and flavors penetrate better. A few tips:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated at 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Check for tenderness around the 35-minute mark by inserting a fork. You want them soft but not mushy.
- If they’re not turning golden enough, you can switch on the broiler for a minute or two—just watch them closely!
Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Crushed red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 35-45 minutes to bake. Total time is around 50-60 minutes. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your sweet potatoes will bake evenly and get that lovely caramelization.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. This will create two flat surfaces for the topping to caramelize nicely!
3. Score the Flesh:
Next, score the flesh of each sweet potato half by making shallow criss-cross cuts on the surface. Be gentle and avoid cutting through the skin; this allows the flavors to seep in while baking.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the sweet potato halves cut-side up on a lined baking sheet. This helps in easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
5. Make the Honey Chili Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), cayenne pepper, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is combined into a nice glaze.
6. Apply the Glaze:
Generously brush the honey chili mixture over the cut sides of the sweet potatoes, ensuring to coat them well for maximum flavor.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the glaze should be caramelized and bubbling.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Then, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and, if you like it spicy, crushed red chili flakes over the top.
9. Serve with Lime:
Serve your Baked Honey Chili Sweet Potatoes warm, with lime wedges on the side for that refreshing squeeze. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweetness, spice, and zesty flavor!
Bon appétit! This dish is sure to bring joy to your table!
Can I Use Different Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While the recipe works best with orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, you can also use purple or white varieties. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on their size and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar makes a great substitute for honey. Both will provide sweetness, though the flavor will change slightly, with maple syrup adding a unique twist!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option—just add a splash of water to prevent drying.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! Adjust the spice level to your taste by increasing the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the glaze. You can also sprinkle additional crushed red chili flakes on top for more heat before serving!
