These chili and honey roasted sweet potatoes are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Roasted to perfection, they have a lovely crunch with a hint of lime that brightens every bite.
Honestly, these sweet potatoes are my favorite side dish! They’re easy to whip up and make my meals pop with flavor. Great for impressing friends or just treating yourself! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I love using medium-sized sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could swap them for butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: It’s great for roasting due to its high smoke point. If you’re out, avocado oil works well too, and it adds a nice flavor. For a lighter option, you can use vegetable oil.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the potatoes. If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect substitutes that will also provide a sweet touch.
Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika): These warm spices give the dish depth. If you want to adjust the heat, try using smoked paprika for a nice smokiness, or cayenne for extra spice. Feel free to adjust or add spices based on your taste!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for that zesty kick. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice adds a similar brightness that works nicely in this dish.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting sweet potatoes to perfection takes a little care. Here’s how to get them tender and caramelized:
- First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to make sure they cook evenly.
- Washing thoroughly is important because you want to remove any dirt or chemicals.
- When cutting, halving them lengthwise helps them cook faster and allows the edges to caramelize nicely.
- Coat them evenly in your honey-chili mixture. Use a brush to make sure all surfaces are covered for the best flavor.
- Placing them cut side down on parchment paper helps avoid sticking and promotes better browning.
After roasting for 25-30 minutes, flip them to let the lime juice sink in, adding a refreshing burst of flavor right before serving!
Chili + Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Lime Juice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to have your sweet potatoes ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick and flavorful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, wash your sweet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel and then cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise, revealing the inside.
2. Mixing the Honey-Chili Coating:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a smooth mixture. This will be your delicious coating for the sweet potatoes.
3. Coating the Sweet Potatoes:
Using a brush or a spoon, coat the cut sides of the sweet potatoes evenly with the honey-chili mixture. Make sure all of the exposed flesh is covered; this will help infuse the sweet potatoes with flavor as they roast.
4. Roasting the Sweet Potatoes:
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Place the sweet potatoes cut side down on the sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. They are done when they become tender and beautifully caramelized.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once your sweet potatoes are roasted, carefully remove them from the oven and flip them over so the cut side is facing up. Drizzle the fresh lime juice over them for that zesty kick!
6. Serving:
Lastly, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top just before serving. Enjoy your warm, tasty chili + honey roasted sweet potatoes with lime juice. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, like regular white or Yukon gold potatoes, but cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on them as you roast, and adjust the time accordingly, as these varieties may take longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to suit a vegan diet. The flavors will still be delicious, and you’ll maintain that sweet and spicy profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture again.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely. For more heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or an extra sprinkle of chili powder after roasting. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for you!
