Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious, wholesome, and perfectly balanced side dish, walnut maple roasted sweet potatoes might just become your new go-to recipe. With their naturally sweet flavor, tender texture, and savory nutty crunch, these sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for holidays, cozy dinners, or simply sprucing up a weekday meal, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. You’ll love the combination of sweet maple syrup, hearty walnuts, and roasted sweet potatoes toasted to perfection.

Recipe and more:

Detailed Ingredients With Measures

Sweet potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and cut into cubes
Maple syrup: 3 tablespoons
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
Chopped walnuts: 1/4 cup, toasted

Recipe information:

Prep Time

10 minutes

Recipe details:

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes, approximately 1-inch each, to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Assemble Ingredients

Place the diced sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are ready for mixing.

Step 4: Toss to Coat

Using a large spoon, spatula, or clean hands, toss the sweet potato cubes together with the other ingredients until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Spread the Sweet Potatoes

Transfer the coated sweet potatoes to your prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to promote even roasting.

Step 6: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 20 minutes, then remove the sheet and use a spatula to flip the sweet potatoes. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden and tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Add Walnuts

Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over the sweet potatoes, then return the pan to the oven. Roast for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the walnuts to toast slightly.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Remove the sweet potatoes and walnuts from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a serving dish. Optionally, drizzle additional maple syrup over the top before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Sweet Potato Size

Make sure to cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Note 2: Flavor Adjustments

You can adjust the seasoning by adding additional spices such as paprika or cayenne for a hint of spice.

Note 3: Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Note 4: Nut-Free Version

If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute them with pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Note 5: Vegan Swap

Use a certified vegan maple syrup to ensure the recipe remains vegan-friendly.
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Cook Techniques

Choosing the Perfect Sweet Potatoes

When selecting sweet potatoes, it is essential to choose ones that are firm, free of blemishes, and have a smooth skin. Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes for even roasting.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes carefully and ensure to chop them into even-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and caramelization during roasting.

Tossing with Maple Syrup and Spices

Before roasting, thoroughly toss the sweet potato cubes with a blend of maple syrup, olive oil, and spices. Coating each piece evenly is crucial for achieving a flavor-packed result.

Roasting for Crispy and Tender Texture

Spread the sweet potato pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring there is space between them. This prevents steaming and promotes a caramelized exterior while keeping the insides tender.

Adding Walnuts for Crunch

Add walnuts during the roasting process to provide a crunchy texture. Mix them in halfway through roasting to prevent over-toasting.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with alternatives like honey or agave syrup. However, the flavor profile may slightly differ.

How do I prevent sweet potatoes from getting soggy during roasting?

Make sure the sweet potato pieces are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet with space in between. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture ahead and refrigerate it. Roast them fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What other nuts can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a similar crunchy texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this dish is naturally vegan as it uses maple syrup and olive oil. Just ensure all your ingredients align with vegan dietary preferences.

Conclusion

The Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe is a perfect blend of nutty, sweet, and earthy flavors that is both comforting and nutritious. This dish not only shines as a standout side for festive meals but can also be a wholesome addition to weeknight dinners. The caramelized texture combined with the crunch of walnuts creates a delightful balance that will impress anyone who tries it.

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