How To Caramelize Sweet Potatoes On The Grill

Grilling Sweet Potatoes to Perfection

Grilling sweet potatoes is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious caramelized flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a new way to enjoy this nutritious root vegetable, grilling sweet potatoes can be a game-changer for your meals. Here’s how to caramelize sweet potatoes on the grill to perfection:

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When it comes to grilling sweet potatoes, it’s important to start with the right ingredients. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free from any soft spots or blemishes. Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that will cook evenly on the grill.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Before you start grilling, it’s essential to prepare the sweet potatoes properly. Begin by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, carefully slice the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds or wedges. Keeping the pieces similar in size will ensure even cooking on the grill.

Seasoning the Sweet Potatoes

Seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of sweet potatoes. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings such as paprika or cinnamon. The olive oil will help the sweet potatoes caramelize and prevent them from sticking to the grill.

Preheating the Grill

Before placing the sweet potatoes on the grill, make sure it’s preheated to a medium-high temperature. This will help create those beautiful grill marks and ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly. If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over before adding the sweet potatoes.

Grilling the Sweet Potatoes

Once the grill is ready, carefully place the seasoned sweet potato slices directly onto the grates. Close the lid and let the sweet potatoes cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop grill marks and are tender on the inside. Avoid moving the sweet potatoes too much to allow for proper caramelization.

Adding a Glaze

If you’re looking to take your grilled sweet potatoes to the next level, consider adding a glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. A mixture of honey, butter, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can create a sweet and spicy glaze that will caramelize beautifully on the sweet potatoes.

Serving the Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are caramelized and tender, carefully remove them from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary for a pop of color and added flavor. Grilled sweet potatoes pair perfectly with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to fresh salads.

With these simple steps, you can elevate your grilling game and enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes in a whole new way. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a tasty side dish, grilled sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.