These perfect smoked sweet potatoes are soft, sweet, and have a wonderful smoky flavor. They’re easy to make and make a great side dish or snack!
Whenever I make these, I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s like a little hug on a plate! Plus, cooking them on the grill brings out the best flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could try butternut squash, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. If you enjoy a different taste, feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a slightly different twist.
Unsalted Butter: This brings richness to the sweet potatoes. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil instead.
Smoked Paprika: This is an optional ingredient that enhances the smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder for heat.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary adds a lovely touch. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can work too, just use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Smoke Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Smoking sweet potatoes may seem tricky, but it’s actually a simple process! The key is to maintain a consistent temperature and give them plenty of time to cook through. Here’s how:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C); this low temperature allows the sweet potatoes to develop that rich, smoky flavor.
- Pricking the potatoes helps steam escape, preventing any explosions! Make a few fork holes on each potato.
- Don’t rush the smoking! Allow 2 to 2.5 hours, testing for tenderness near the end. When a knife slides in easily, they’re done!
These tips will help you create delicious, smoky sweet potatoes every time. Happy smoking!
How to Make Perfect Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, and approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to smoke. So, you’ll only need about 10 minutes of hands-on cooking time, and then you can relax while the sweet potatoes are smoking away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you’re using a charcoal smoker, make sure to set it up for indirect cooking. For electric or pellet smokers, just set it to the desired temperature and let it heat up.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, wash and scrub each sweet potato under cool running water to get rid of any dirt. Once cleaned, dry them off with a clean towel. This helps the olive oil stick better.
3. Make Those Pricks:
Using a fork, prick each sweet potato a few times. This is important as it allows steam to escape while the potatoes are smoking, preventing them from bursting.
4. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
Rub the sweet potatoes all over with olive oil, ensuring they’re well coated. Now, season them generously with salt and black pepper. If you’d like a smoky twist, sprinkle some smoked paprika on top too!
5. Get Smoking:
Place the sweet potatoes directly on the smoker rack, or you can use a grilling mat if preferred. Once they’re in place, close the lid of the smoker and let them smoke.
6. Check for Doneness:
Let the sweet potatoes smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours. To check if they are done, carefully insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of a potato. If it slides in easily, you’re good to go!
7. Cool and Cut:
When the sweet potatoes are tender, take them out of the smoker and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise to reveal their soft, sweet interiors.
8. Add Butter:
Pop a tablespoon of unsalted butter into the center of each half. The heat from the potato will melt the butter beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, you can add fresh herbs along with any additional seasoning for extra flavor. Serve these warm as a scrumptious side dish or a healthy snack. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Regular white or red potatoes will take longer to become tender, while smaller varieties will cook faster. Always check for doneness by piercing them with a fork!
How Do I Store Leftover Smoked Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover smoked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven. To keep them moist, drizzle a little water over them before reheating!
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Butter in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil or coconut oil in place of the unsalted butter. This will keep your dish plant-based while still adding richness and flavor!
Can I Smoke Sweet Potatoes Without a Smoker?
If you don’t have a smoker, you can achieve similar results using a charcoal grill with indirect heat. Add some wood chips to the coals for a smoky flavor. Wrap your sweet potatoes in foil and place them on the cool side of the grill, cooking them at the same temperature of 225°F (107°C)!
