Sweet Potato Pan-Searing Secrets

Pan-searing sweet potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook a versatile, delicious, and healthy side dish. With just a few simple steps, you can transform sweet potatoes into a flavourful addition to any meal.

The process is simple: heat some oil in a large frying pan or skillet, add sliced or diced sweet potatoes, and cook on a medium heat for around 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly, until they are tender and slightly crispy. You can then add your choice of seasoning, from cinnamon and brown sugar to chilli powder or garlic.

This method of cooking sweet potatoes is a great option when you're short on time, and it's a brilliant way to add some extra flavour and texture to your meal.

How to peel and slice sweet potatoes

Preparing your sweet potatoes for pan-searing is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

First, rinse your sweet potatoes under running water, scrubbing them with a brush to remove any dirt. You can use slightly warm water to soften the skin and make peeling easier. Once they're clean, dry them with a tea towel or paper towels.

Next, use a sharp knife to cut off any woody parts of the sweet potato. These are the thick, tough parts of the skin that would be difficult to peel. Removing them will make the peeling process safer and more efficient.

Now, you're ready to peel. Using a vegetable peeler, preferably one with a serrated edge, start from the root and make long, even strokes to remove the peel. Turn the sweet potato in your hand as you work your way around. If you don't have a vegetable peeler, you can use a paring knife. Hold the sweet potato in your non-dominant hand and make small incisions into the skin, gently drawing the knife under the skin to peel.

Once your sweet potatoes are peeled, you can cut them into your desired shape. For pan-searing, slices are a popular option, but you can also cut them into cubes, batons, or rounds, depending on your intended use. Remember to find or cut a flat surface on the sweet potato to ensure stability when cutting. Aim for even cuts to ensure uniform cooking.

And that's it! You now have peeled and sliced sweet potatoes ready for pan-searing or any other cooking method you choose.

How to prevent sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan

To prevent sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan, you can take a few different approaches. Firstly, it is important to use the right type of pan. A heavy pan with a thick bottom, such as a cast-iron skillet, or a non-stick skillet, works best. These pans distribute heat evenly, reducing the likelihood of sticking. It is also crucial to ensure that your pan is well-seasoned or truly non-stick before use.

Another key factor is the amount of oil used. Use enough oil to coat the sweet potato slices generously, as this will help prevent sticking. Additionally, make sure that the oil is heated before adding the sweet potatoes to the pan. You can also toss the sweet potatoes in a little oil before placing them in the pan. This extra step will help ensure a crispy exterior.

The technique you use while cooking also matters. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of frying. Give the sweet potatoes enough space to form a crust, which will help keep them tender on the inside. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before attempting to flip or move them. This initial browning will help prevent sticking.

Finally, the type of potato you choose can make a difference. Starchier potatoes tend to stick more, so opt for low-starch, waxy potatoes like fingerlings, red, or new potatoes.

How to season sweet potatoes

There are many ways to season sweet potatoes. Here are some ideas:

Spices and Seasonings

You can season your sweet potatoes with a variety of spices and seasonings. Some popular options include:

• Cumin
• Cinnamon
• Cayenne pepper
• Brown sugar
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Chipotle or adobo powder
• Lemon pepper seasoning
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Garlic powder
• Curry powder
• Turmeric
• Mediterranean blend (dried basil, Italian herbs, lemon, olive oil)

Oils

The choice of oil can also enhance the flavour of your sweet potatoes. Here are some options:

• Olive oil
• Avocado oil
• Coconut oil
• Ghee (clarified butter)
• Vegetable oil

Other Ingredients

You can also add other ingredients to your sweet potatoes for extra flavour:

• Butter
• Honey
• Sugar
• Minced garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Citrus flavours (orange zest, lemon)

Sweet Potato Dishes

• Sweet and spicy sweet potatoes (paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, chili powder, cayenne pepper)
• Garlic herb roasted potatoes (garlic, parsley)
• Mediterranean blend (dried basil, Italian herbs, lemon, olive oil)
• Cinnamon apple sweet potatoes
• Sweet potato zucchini hash
• Sweet potato soup
• Sweet potato muffins
• Baked sweet potato chips
• Marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes
• Hasselback sweet potatoes

How to store and reheat sweet potatoes

Storing and reheating sweet potatoes is a straightforward process. Here is a detailed guide to help you do it right.

Storing Cooked Sweet Potatoes

Once you have cooked your sweet potatoes, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in a shallow airtight container or a zip-top bag and store them in the refrigerator. Cooked sweet potatoes will stay good in the fridge for about three to five days.

Storing Uncooked Sweet Potatoes

Uncooked sweet potatoes are best stored in a cool, dry, and dark area, like a pantry or a kitchen countertop. Keep them in a bowl or basket, and always thoroughly wash and scrub their skin before cooking.

It is not recommended to store uncooked sweet potatoes in the refrigerator, as refrigeration can affect their taste and texture. They will last for a couple of weeks to one month at room temperature.

Reheating Sweet Potatoes

There are several methods to reheat sweet potatoes, each with its pros and cons:

• Microwave: Place the sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl, cover them, and heat for about 2-3 minutes. This is the quickest method but may affect the texture.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sweet potato in aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes. This method retains the original flavor and texture of the sweet potatoes.
• Stovetop: Slice the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes. Heat a skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat and add oil or butter. Add the sweet potato slices and cook for a few minutes until heated through and lightly browned. This method adds extra flavor and crispness to the sweet potatoes.
• Air Fryer: Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges or fries. This method is ideal for those who prefer crispier potatoes.

Freezing Sweet Potatoes

You can also freeze cooked sweet potatoes to extend their shelf life. Here are three ways to do it:

• Whole: Scrub the sweet potatoes, pierce them, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for an hour. Let them cool, wrap them in foil, and place them in zip-top freezer bags.
• Sliced: Scrub and boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Peel and slice them, then arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze overnight and transfer to a freezer bag.
• Mashed: Boil or bake peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. Mash them without adding butter or milk. Add a bit of lemon juice to preserve the color, then let it cool and transfer to freezer bags.

Frozen sweet potatoes can be stored for about one year and are excellent for soups, stews, and casseroles.

How to serve sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be served in many ways and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

As a Side Dish

Sweet potatoes make a great side dish for various proteins, such as chicken, tofu, turkey, pork, or fish. They also go well with grains like quinoa or couscous and can be added to salads or pasta dishes. For a simple side, try pan-frying sweet potato slices with a little oil and seasoning of your choice.

For Breakfast

Sweet potatoes are an excellent breakfast option. Try them with eggs, whether scrambled, poached, or fried, or as part of a breakfast hash or burrito. You can also top them with fried eggs for a tasty brunch option.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Sweet potatoes work well in sandwiches, wraps, or breakfast burritos. Add some greens, your preferred protein, and your favorite condiments for a delicious and filling meal.

With Dips or Sauces

Enjoy sweet potatoes with a variety of dips or sauces like aioli, chipotle mayo, or a yogurt-based dip. They can also be served with a simple sriracha dip.

As a Topping

Use sweet potatoes as a unique topping for pizzas, tacos, or nachos to add a twist to your favorite dishes.

In Soups or Stews

Sweet potatoes are a great addition to soups or stews, providing texture and flavor. They can also be blended into creamy soups if you have leftovers.

With Other Vegetables

Sweet potatoes pair well with other vegetables, such as spinach, beets, or cabbage. Try them in a veggie-loaded burrito or bowl.

Seasoning Ideas

When it comes to seasoning, the options are endless. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper or get creative with spices like cinnamon, cayenne pepper, chili powder, rosemary, or sage. For a sweet and spicy kick, try a mix of cinnamon, cayenne, and brown sugar.

Storage and Reheating

Cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To freeze, spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag or container. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil or butter to restore crispness.

Frequently asked questions