These chili and honey roasted sweet potatoes are a tasty surprise! The sweet and spicy flavors mix perfectly, giving you a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Add a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness. When I make these, I can’t resist sneaking an extra bite or two while they cool! 🍠✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They are the star of this dish, bringing natural sweetness. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can work in a pinch but will offer a different taste and texture.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with roasting. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can be great substitutes.
Honey: It provides that lovely sweetness. For a vegan alternative, use maple syrup or agave syrup; they work perfectly here.
Chili Powder: Adjust this based on your heat preference. If you want a milder flavor, paprika can be a good substitute. Feel free to mix in cayenne pepper for extra heat!
Lime: Fresh lime juice and zest brighten up the dish. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can be used, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting sweet potatoes to perfection is about choosing the right time and temperature. Preheating your oven is key to getting that nice caramelization.
- Start by cutting the sweet potatoes evenly; this ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Coat them well in the honey-chili mixture. The coating helps keep moisture in while adding flavor.
- Place them cut-side down on the baking sheet. This helps caramelize the sugars, giving them a nice golden color.
- Keep an eye on them while they roast. If they start to look too dark before they’re tender, you can cover them loosely with foil for the last few minutes.
Let them rest for a few minutes after roasting so they set and are easier to serve. Enjoy this dish warm for the best flavors!
Chili Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Lime Juice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
For The Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in total, you’ll need about 45-50 minutes to enjoy your spicy, sweet, and zesty sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the sweet potatoes roast perfectly.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water, then gently pat them dry with a clean towel. Slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise to prepare them for roasting.
3. Mix the Honey-Chili Coating:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, chili powder, ground cumin, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed and combined to create a flavorful coating for your sweet potatoes.
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Using a brush or a spoon, evenly coat the cut sides of the sweet potatoes with the honey-chili mixture. Be sure to cover them well to get all that delicious flavor into the dish!
5. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potato halves cut-side down on a lined baking sheet—using parchment paper makes for easy cleanup. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
6. Cool and Add Toppings:
Once done, take the sweet potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle any leftover honey-chili mixture over the top, and sprinkle some lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve your warm Chili Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes and enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness, spice, and zest!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—regular potatoes might take a bit longer, so check for tenderness with a fork.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegan by swapping honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor will still be delightful, so feel free to adjust the sweetness according to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the sweet potatoes and the honey-chili mixture a day ahead. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, brush the mixture on the potatoes and roast as directed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to refresh the flavors!
