Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that perfectly balances crunch, sweetness, and a touch of spice, look no further than these Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes. This recipe takes humble sweet potatoes and transforms them into golden, crispy bites that offer both creamy interiors and irresistible exteriors. Whether you are craving a comforting snack, a flavorful side, or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes deliver an unforgettable taste experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component has a part to play in creating the perfect crispy texture, a vibrant flavor profile, and a visually inviting dish.

• Sweet potato (600g): The star of the show; provides natural sweetness and creamy texture inside.
• Olive oil (2 1/2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps achieve that crisp exterior during baking or air frying.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Essential for creating a light, crispy coating on the sweet potatoes.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses a subtle, savory note that deepens the flavor complexity.
• Sriracha (1 tsp): Offers a gentle kick to balance the natural sweetness perfectly.
• Freshly cracked black pepper (1/2 tsp): Delivers a mild heat and freshness in every bite.
• Flaked sea salt (1/2 – 1 tsp): Adjust to taste; enhances overall flavor and brightens the dish.
• Honey (1 tsp): Drizzled at the end for sticky, sweet glaze that contrasts with the savory crunch.
• Greek-style yogurt (1/4 cup / 90g): The base of a creamy garlic dipping sauce that complements the crispy potatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the yogurt sauce perfectly.
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic (1/2 tsp or 1 clove): Your choice to personalize the dipping sauce with aromatic garlic flavor.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into thick 3cm rounds. Boil them in salted water until they become tender enough to pierce easily with a knife, about 5 to 8 minutes. This soft interior is key to the smashed texture that makes this dish so delightful.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

While the sweet potatoes are cooking, whisk together olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, sriracha, black pepper, and sea salt into a smooth mixture. This blend not only adds flavor but also creates the crispy crust that sets these potatoes apart.

Step 3: Smash the Sweet Potatoes

Drain your cooked sweet potato slices and arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray. Using a small square piece of baking paper on top of each slice, press down gently with a glass or dish until the potato is just under 1cm thick. This smashing step is essential to maximize surface contact with the heat source for that perfect crispy finish.

Step 4: Coat and Bake

Brush the prepared cornflour and oil mixture over the tops of the smashed potatoes, then carefully flip each slice over and coat the underside as well. Place the tray in the oven preheated to 180°C, or use an air fryer if you prefer, and cook for 30-40 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure an even golden-brown crispness.

Step 5: Finish with Honey and Serve

As the potatoes near the end of cooking, drizzle honey across their surfaces and return them to the heat for a few minutes. This allows the honey to caramelize slightly, adding a sticky, sweet contrast to the savory crust. Remove from heat, season with an extra sprinkle of salt and pepper, and prepare the garlic yoghurt dipping sauce to serve alongside.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes from delicious to truly special. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A few toasted sesame seeds or a dash of smoked paprika can also bring a delightful twist in texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

These potatoes are so versatile that you can pair them with a wide variety of dishes. They go beautifully alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Their rich texture can balance spicy or tangy mains, making them an ideal side dish for barbecues or family dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party or appetizer presentation, serve the Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes on a large platter, each accompanied by a small bowl of the garlic yoghurt dip. You could also arrange them as “loaded” bites with toppings like crumbled feta, avocado slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an irresistible flavor punch that makes every mouthful exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crispness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal because the crisp texture may soften. If you must freeze, lay the smashed sweet potatoes flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Consume within 1 month for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes is in the oven or air fryer at 180°C for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps restore their crunch, unlike microwaving which can make them mushy. For an extra touch, add a quick drizzle of olive oil before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes without cornstarch?

Cornstarch plays an important role in giving these sweet potatoes their iconic crispiness, so omitting it may result in a softer texture. However, you can experiment with alternatives like rice flour for a similar effect.

What if I don’t have sriracha? Can I use another hot sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute sriracha with your favorite hot sauce or chili paste. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference to keep the flavor balanced.

Is the garlic yoghurt sauce necessary?

While the garlic yoghurt sauce adds a refreshing, creamy contrast that complements the spice and crisp of the potatoes beautifully, the Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes are delicious on their own if you prefer a simpler option.

Can I cook these in an air fryer instead of an oven?

Yes, an air fryer works perfectly for this recipe and usually reduces the cooking time slightly. Just remember to flip the potatoes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

Are these suitable for a vegan diet?

The recipe is mostly vegan, but to keep it fully vegan, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely can’t recommend these Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes enough! They bring such a comforting yet exciting twist on traditional potato dishes and are guaranteed to win over family, friends, or even just your own craving. Give them a try and watch your sweet potato game reach a whole new level of deliciousness.

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