When it comes to outdoor cooking, there's something special about preparing food over an open fire. The smoky flavor and rustic charm of cooking in coals can't be beat. If you're looking for a delicious and simple outdoor recipe, baking a sweet potato in coals is a fantastic option. Not only is it easy to do, but it results in a sweet and savory treat that's perfect for a campfire meal or a backyard cookout.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potato
Before you start cooking, it's important to select the right sweet potato. Look for one that is firm and free of any soft spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and free of any sprouting eyes. Additionally, try to choose a sweet potato that is relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Preparing the Sweet Potato
Once you have chosen the perfect sweet potato, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Follow these simple steps to get your sweet potato ready for the coals:
- Wash the sweet potato: Use water to gently scrub the sweet potato to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
- Dry the sweet potato: Pat the sweet potato dry with a clean towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Pierce the sweet potato: Use a fork to pierce the sweet potato in several places. This will allow steam to escape during the cooking process and prevent the sweet potato from bursting open.
Building the Fire
Now that your sweet potato is prepped and ready to go, it's time to build your fire. Whether you're using a campfire or a backyard fire pit, follow these steps to create the perfect cooking environment:
- Gather your coals: Once your fire has burned down to hot coals, carefully rake them into an even layer.
- Create a cooking area: Use a stick or shovel to clear a small space in the coals for cooking. This will be the area where you place your sweet potato.
Cooking the Sweet Potato
With your fire ready to go, it's time to cook your sweet potato. Follow these steps for perfectly baked sweet potato in coals:
- Wrap the sweet potato: Wrap the sweet potato in aluminum foil, making sure to seal it tightly.
- Place it in the coals: Carefully place the foil-wrapped sweet potato in the cleared cooking area in the coals.
- Cover with coals: Gently cover the wrapped sweet potato with a layer of additional hot coals.
- Let it cook: Allow the sweet potato to cook in the coals for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potato. You can check for doneness by carefully unwrapping the foil and testing the potato with a fork. It should be tender all the way through.
Serving the Baked Sweet Potato
Once your sweet potato is perfectly cooked, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Carefully unwrap the foil and transfer the sweet potato to a plate. You can serve it as is for a simple and delicious side dish, or get creative with toppings like butter, brown sugar, or cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
Conclusion
Baking a sweet potato in coals is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors and create a delicious meal at the same time. Whether you're camping, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a taste of the outdoors, this cooking method is sure to impress. So, gather your sweet potatoes, build a fire, and get ready to savor the smoky, sweet flavor of a perfectly baked sweet potato in coals.
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