Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors! Our "Spicy Sweet Potatoes and Apples" recipe is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes and juicy apples with a kick of cayenne pepper. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant, colorful side that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—let’s dive into the recipe that will transform your mealtime!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 apples, cored and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Core the apples and dice them into similar-sized pieces as the sweet potatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes and apples. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, ensuring all pieces are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the sweet potatoes and apples. Toss thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes and apples in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Remove from the oven when the sweet potatoes are tender and edges are crispy, and the apples are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents burning.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a variety of apples that holds up well during cooking, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, to add a delightful tartness that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Uniform Cutting: To ensure even cooking, make sure to dice your sweet potatoes and apples into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. This will help them roast evenly and achieve that perfect caramelization.
- Spice Adjustment: If you're sensitive to heat, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch and add more to suit your taste preference.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the sweet potatoes and apples in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which will prevent that delicious crispiness.
- Stir for Even Roasting: Remember to stir the mixture halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that all sides get that golden-brown finish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Serve Warm: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also makes it easier to enjoy without burning your mouth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
