If you're looking to add a burst of color and flavor to your meals, this roasted purple sweet potato recipe is delicious and packed with nutrients. These Japanese sweet potatoes are mildly sweet and nutty tasting making them the perfect side dish or topping to a salad or grain bowl.
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There are two main types of purple sweet potatoes commonly found in markets: Okinawan sweet potatoes, originally from Japan, and Stokes Purple® sweet potatoes, developed in the United States in North Carolina. It's still hard to find purple potatoes in most grocery stores, but Sprouts has the Stokes brand. Both varieties share a mild, slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked.
Why Cook with Purple Sweet Potatoes?
Purple sweet potatoes are not only visually striking but also packed with nutrients. Here's why they're worth adding to your meals:
- Rich in Antioxidants: The anthocyanins in purple sweet potatoes help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- High in Fiber: These potatoes are great for digestion and help keep you feeling full.
- Low Glycemic Index: Purple sweet potatoes release sugar more slowly into the bloodstream, making them a better choice than regular potatoes for managing blood sugar levels.
- Versatile and Delicious: Their slightly sweet, earthy flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Purple Sweet Potatoes - Purple sweet potatoes are less sweet than yams or regular sweet potatoes, so season accordingly. They also leave your hand sticky after peeling and cutting.
Olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) - Oil is the key to getting any sort of crispy texture on these potatoes. You could also use coconut oil, melted ghee or a vegan butter.
Salt - I always use coarse Kosher salt in my recipes, so be mindful if you are using a fine grain salt and cut the amount down by a third or half.
Black pepper - An optional seasoning that adds a sharp, spicy taste that can enhance the overall flavor profile of a dish.
Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, or chili powder
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Rinse and scrub your sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them for a smoother texture or leave the skin on for added fiber and a rustic look. Cut into wedges, cubes, or rounds, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings. Make sure they're evenly coated for the best flavor.
Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding-this helps them roast evenly and develop crispy edges. Bake for 30 -40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and fork-tender. Cooking time may very depending on the size of the potato wedges.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm. These roasted purple sweet potatoes are a stunning side dish or can be enjoyed as a snack on their own. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
PrintGet the Recipe
Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Purple sweet potatoes are delicious and nutritious and can be eaten on their own or tossed into a salad or grain bowl. Note they are not as sweet as the traditional sweet potatoes we are used to.
Ingredients
- 3 - 4 (3lbs) medium purple sweet potatoes, peeled*
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 2 teaspoons coarse Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika or chili powder
- Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
- Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges, cubes, or rounds, ensuring even sizes for consistent cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings making sure they're evenly coated for the best flavor.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding-this helps them roast evenly and develop crispy edges.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and fork-tender.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Equipment
Buy Now →Notes
- *Purple sweet potatoes will leave your hands sticky after cutting them. Wear gloves to keep your hands from getting sticky and purple.
- These potatoes aren't as sweet as traditional sweet potatoes, and they won't caramelize and crisp up in the same way.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sides
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Tips for Success
Cut Evenly for Even Cooking
Uniformly sized pieces ensure all your sweet potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some from being underdone or overcooked.
Don't Skimp on the Oil
A good coating of oil helps your sweet potatoes crisp up beautifully and enhances their natural flavor. Choose a high-quality oil like olive oil or avocado oil for the best results.
Space Them Out
Crowding the baking sheet traps steam, leading to soggy potatoes. Use multiple baking sheets if needed to ensure they roast instead of steam.
Experiment with Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary add an aromatic touch. You can also sprinkle grated parmesan or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.
Make It a Meal
Pair your roasted purple sweet potatoes with a creamy dipping sauce like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or tahini dressing for an irresistible snack or appetizer.
If you love this recipe, I would love to know! You can leave a comment below. We'd love to hear from you. Also, you could tag a photo on Instagram @hungrywaitress and I'll be sure to share it.
Roasted purple sweet potatoes are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you serve them as a side dish like purple sweet potato fries, a colorful addition to salads, or a snack with dipping sauces, make purple sweet potato chips, they're sure to become a household favorite. Give this recipe a try and let their naturally bright purple color and sweet flavor brighten up your table!
Looking for more side dish recipes? Check these out!
Leanna says
So yummy! I tossed them in some vinaigrette to add some tang, and it's so good. Thanks!