Grilling Sweet Potatoes: The Perfect Side Dish
If you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious side dish to accompany your grilled mains, look no further than sweet potatoes. These versatile tubers are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. The best part? Cooking sweet potatoes on the grill is incredibly easy, adding a smoky flavor that takes their taste to a whole new level. So, fire up the grill and let’s learn how to cook sweet potatoes to perfection.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
When selecting sweet potatoes for grilling, choose ones that are firm and blemish-free. Look for a vibrant orange or deep purple flesh, which indicates a higher sugar content and a sweeter taste. The size is up to you, but keep in mind that smaller sweet potatoes will cook faster.
Preparing Sweet Potatoes for Grilling
- Start by scrubbing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Next, pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork. This will allow the steam to escape and prevent them from bursting while grilling.
- Now, rub the sweet potatoes with a bit of olive oil to keep them moist and prevent sticking to the grill. You can also season them with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor.
Grilling Sweet Potatoes
Grilling sweet potatoes requires indirect heat, so make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, follow these steps:
- Place the sweet potatoes on the grill grates, away from direct heat. If you have a gas grill, turn off the burners on one side or create a cool zone by stacking the charcoal on one side of a charcoal grill.
- Cook the sweet potatoes for about 30-40 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. They should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish or used as a base for other culinary creations. Here are a few serving ideas to inspire you:
- Cut the grilled sweet potatoes into wedges and serve them with a tangy barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Slice the sweet potatoes and use them to make a colorful and flavorful grilled sweet potato salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.
- Mash the grilled sweet potatoes with butter, cinnamon, and a hint of maple syrup to create a sweet and smoky side dish.
No matter how you choose to serve them, grilling sweet potatoes is a simple and delicious way to enhance their natural sweetness. So, next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to add some sweet potatoes to the menu. Your taste buds will thank you!
Happy grilling!
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook Short Ribs In A Crock Pot