Sweet and Spicy Mexican Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A Flavorful Beginner-Friendly Dish
Sweet and Spicy Mexican Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the perfect balance of smoky heat and natural sweetness. Tossed with bold Mexican spices, roasted until crispy on the outside and tender inside, this beginner-friendly dish is a flavorful side or meatless main! 🌶️🍠🔥
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 medium or 2 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures the sweet potatoes roast properly, developing a crisp exterior while staying tender inside.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, as their skin can trap dirt. If desired, peel them, though the skin adds extra texture and nutrients. Slice them into equal-sized rounds, about ½-inch thick. Cutting them evenly ensures they cook uniformly.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the sliced sweet potatoes with avocado oil or olive oil. Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. If you enjoy extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes. Mix well to ensure the seasonings evenly coat each piece.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can cause steaming instead of roasting. For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roast to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 22-26 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip each piece to ensure even caramelization on both sides. The potatoes should be golden brown and fork-tender when done.
6. Add the Final Touches
Once out of the oven, drizzle the roasted sweet potatoes with about a tablespoon of honey. This step enhances their natural sweetness while complementing the savory spices.
7. Garnish and Serve
For a fresh burst of flavor, squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. If desired, add roasted pumpkin seeds, extra chili flakes, or thinly sliced red onion. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
How to Tell If Sweet Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly
- A fork should easily pierce the center without resistance.
- The edges should be slightly crispy and caramelized, but not burned.
- The color should deepen, with some golden-brown spots.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Potatoes Are Too Soft: If the sweet potatoes are mushy rather than crisp, they may be overcrowded on the baking sheet. Spread them out to allow proper roasting.
- Potatoes Are Browning Too Quickly: If the edges are dark before the centers are tender, lower the oven temperature slightly or flip them sooner.
- Uneven Cooking: Make sure all pieces are the same thickness to ensure even roasting.
Kitchen Tips for Efficiency
- Prepping Ahead: Cut and season the sweet potatoes in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to a day before roasting.
- Batch Cooking: Roast extra sweet potatoes and store them for quick meals throughout the week.
- Easy Cleanup: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup simple.