Grilled sweet potatoes offer a delightful twist on a classic side dish. Their natural sweetness, when caramelized over an open flame, transforms into a savory-sweet treat that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner looking to add a new flavor to your repertoire, grilling sweet potatoes is both simple and rewarding. Here’s a guide to achieving perfectly grilled sweet potatoes every time.
Preparing Sweet Potatoes for the Grill
To get started, you’ll want to select the right sweet potatoes. Look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes. The size of the sweet potatoes matters too; medium to large ones are ideal as they allow for even cooking. Begin by washing them thoroughly to remove any dirt, and then peel them if you prefer. While peeling is optional, it can result in a smoother texture and more even grilling. Check out this link with more info on how to select and store sweet potatoes!
Next, cut the sweet potatoes into uniform slices or wedges. The key is to keep the pieces of equal thickness—about half an inch thick is ideal. This ensures that they cook evenly and develop that desirable char without burning. Once cut, you’ll want to par-cook the sweet potatoes to ensure they’re tender inside. You can do this by boiling them for about 5-7 minutes or, if you’re short on time, microwaving them until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Par-cooking reduces the grilling time and helps achieve a perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender interior.
After par-cooking, it’s time to season the sweet potatoes. Toss them in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Popular additions include smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a touch of cinnamon for a sweet kick. Ensure that the sweet potatoes are well-coated for maximum flavor and to help them crisp up on the grill. If you would like to add brown sugar to the mix, follow the link to a great recipe with only a 10 min prep time!
Grilling the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create a good sear but not so hot that it burns the sweet potatoes before they are cooked through. If using a gas grill, you can control the heat more precisely, but if using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are spread out evenly.
Place the sweet potatoes on the grill perpendicular to the grates to create those attractive grill marks. Grill them with the lid closed to ensure even cooking. Turn the sweet potatoes occasionally, about every 2-3 minutes, until they are nicely charred and tender throughout. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices and the heat of your grill. This technique ensures that these grilled potatoes are perfectly cooked and ready to complement your grill meals.
To check for doneness, you can use a fork or skewer; it should slide in easily when the sweet potatoes are fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Grilled sweet potatoes are a delicious, versatile side that complements a wide array of main dishes. By selecting the right potatoes, properly preparing and seasoning them, and grilling them to perfection, you can enjoy a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, with a satisfying balance of crispiness and tenderness. Next time you fire up the grill, give this simple yet flavorful dish a try and savor the mouthwatering results that will enhance any of your grill meals.