These smoked sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! They get a nice smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy smoked garlic compound butter. Yum!
I love serving these potatoes at get-togethers—they steal the spotlight! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up the butter while the potatoes are smoking. Who doesn’t love that combo? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Make sure to choose firm, unblemished medium-sized sweet potatoes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, yams work too, but they have a different flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: This helps create a tasty outer layer. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use melted coconut oil, avocado oil, or even butter for a richer taste.
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavor. Feel free to use sea salt, kosher salt, or even garlic salt for a twist. Freshly ground black pepper adds a kick, but you can skip it for a milder dish.
Butter: Adds richness at the end. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try using vegan butter or ghee instead. You can also leave it out entirely!
Optional Toppings: Cinnamon adds warmth, honey brings sweetness, and marshmallows are a fun treat. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version or skip the toppings for a more savory approach.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture While Smoking Sweet Potatoes?
Getting that perfect texture is essential for sweet potatoes. You want them tender throughout, without drying out. Start by ensuring they’re well-prepared.
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well to remove dirt.
- Poke holes all around to let steam escape; this prevents them from bursting during cooking.
- Smoke them slowly at 225°F (107°C). Low and slow is the key!
- Check for tenderness by inserting a fork after about 2 hours. Keep smoking until they feel soft.
Let them cool slightly before cutting to avoid burns and enhance the flavors. Enjoy their natural sweetness with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Perfect Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
- Optional toppings: cinnamon, honey, or marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 2 to 3 hours to smoke. The total time depends on how long you let those sweet potatoes absorb that smoky goodness. Now, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to a cozy 225°F (107°C). If you don’t have a smoker, no worries! You can also use a grill with a smoking box or set up a charcoal grill for indirect heat. Just make sure it stays at that nice low temperature!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Grab those sweet potatoes and give them a good wash! Scrub off any dirt you see and then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps prepare them for the delicious smokiness they’re about to get!
3. Poke and Season:
Use a fork to poke several holes in each sweet potato. This allows steam to escape, so they cook evenly. Then, rub each one with olive oil and sprinkle on some salt and black pepper to make them taste even better.
4. Smoke the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to place the sweet potatoes in the smoker or on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and a fork easily pierces through them. The waiting is worth it!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once they’re smoked, carefully remove the sweet potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut them open lengthwise and add a tablespoon of butter to each one. For some extra yum, sprinkle with cinnamon, drizzle honey, or add mini marshmallows if you like. Serve them warm, and enjoy your perfectly smoked sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for medium sweet potatoes, you can use other varieties such as Japanese sweet potatoes or purple sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on their size and density. Always check for tenderness with a fork!
What If I Don’t Have a Smoker?
No problem! You can use a grill with a smoking box or a charcoal grill set up for indirect heat. Add soaked wood chips to the grill for that smoky flavor. Just make sure to keep the heat low and indirect, so the sweet potatoes cook evenly without burning.
Can I Prepare Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare sweet potatoes ahead of time! Smoke them and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though oven reheating gives a better texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftover smoked sweet potatoes, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just wrap each sweet potato tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months!
