These perfect smoked sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that’s hard to resist! With their sweet, smoky flavor, they’re sure to make everyone smile.
Trust me, the smoke adds a fun twist! I sometimes sneak them as a late-night snack—who can blame me? Serve them warm, maybe with a sprinkle of salt, and enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! Look for medium-sized ones with smooth skin and no blemishes. If you’re in a pinch, you could use butternut squash as a substitute for a similar sweetness and texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead. They add a nice richness without the dairy.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives the sweet potatoes a delicious smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use regular paprika and a touch of liquid smoke for a similar effect.
Garlic Powder: It enhances the flavor but can be swapped with fresh minced garlic if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember, fresh garlic is a bit stronger, so reduce the amount if needed.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten the dish. Crumbled feta adds a nice creaminess. If you’re vegan, try using a plant-based cheese instead.
How Do You Get Perfectly Tender Smoked Sweet Potatoes?
The smoking process is key to getting those perfectly tender sweet potatoes. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, preheat your smoker to a steady 225°F (107°C). Keep the temperature consistent for even cooking.
- Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes thoroughly; this prevents them from bursting while smoking.
- Season evenly and don’t skip the resting time after smoking. Letting them rest helps their natural sweetness come through.
- Test for doneness with a fork. If it goes in easily, your sweet potatoes are ready!
How to Make Perfect Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: fresh herbs (like parsley or chives), crumbled feta cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 to 3 hours of smoking time. So, set aside a total of around 3 hours to enjoy these delicious sweet potatoes with that fantastic smoky flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you have wood chips like hickory or apple, toss some in to give your sweet potatoes a delicious smoky flavor. Yum!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to make sure they’re clean. Then, take a fork and gently pierce each potato several times. This helps the steam escape while they’re cooking, preventing them from bursting. Nobody likes a mess!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend is what’s going to give your sweet potatoes a lovely flavor kick!
4. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
If you’d like, rub each sweet potato lightly with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the potatoes, making sure they’re well-covered.
5. Smoke the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, place the seasoned sweet potatoes directly on the smoker rack. Close the lid and let them do their thing in the smoky goodness!
6. Check for Tenderness:
Let the sweet potatoes smoke for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Mouthwatering!
7. Rest and Prepare to Serve:
Once the sweet potatoes are smoked to perfection, carefully remove them from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps them cool slightly and makes them easier to handle.
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Cut each sweet potato open and top with a tablespoon of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt into the warm flesh. Feel free to add any optional garnishes like fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smoked sweet potatoes warm, and dig in! These are sure to be a hit at any meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While this recipe is tailored for sweet potatoes, you can use regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just note that they may require less smoking time, so start checking for tenderness after about 1.5 hours.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, you can substitute with regular paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a smoky and spicy flavor. Alternatively, chipotle powder offers a great smoky touch as well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smoked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also add a little extra butter for enhancing the flavor!
Can I Smoke Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can smoke the sweet potatoes a day ahead, then let them cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat them in the smoker or oven to bring back the smoky flavor and enjoy!
