Purple Sweet Potato Recipe: 2 Delicious Ways

Have you ever wondered how to transform those vibrant purple sweet potatoes into a dish that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning? Many home cooks bypass these colorful tubers in favor of their orange cousins, missing out on their unique flavor profile and impressive nutritional benefits.

I’m excited to share my favorite purple sweet potato recipe with you today. These versatile gems can be prepared in multiple ways, and I’ll be walking you through two spectacular methods that highlight their natural sweetness and gorgeous color. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish or a nutritious main course, these purple sweet potato recipes will not disappoint!

Ingredients List

For these two delicious purple sweet potato preparations, you’ll need ingredients that complement their naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor. I’ve divided the lists by recipe for clarity:

Recipe 1: Roasted Purple Sweet Potato Wedges

• Take about four fresh purple sweet potatoes, give them a good rinse, and pat them completely dry.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (substitute avocado oil for a higher smoke point).
• 2 teaspoons sea salt.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (dried works too, use 1 teaspoon).
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
• Sprinkle in half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you’re in the mood for a little extra heat.

Recipe 2: Creamy Purple Sweet Potato Mash

• Remove the skins from four medium purple sweet potatoes and chop them into bite-sized, uniform cubes.
• ¼ cup butter (plant-based butter works well for a vegan option).
• ¼ cup milk or cream (coconut milk makes an excellent dairy-free alternative).
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (honey or agave nectar can be substituted).
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• ½ teaspoon salt.
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans for garnish (optional).

Timing

Understanding the time commitment helps you plan your meal preparation efficiently. Both of these purple sweet potato recipe options are relatively quick compared to other root vegetable preparations.

Roasted Purple Sweet Potato Wedges

• Preparation time: 10 minutes.
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes.
• Total time: 35-40 minutes.

This method is 15% faster than traditional roasting techniques that call for whole potatoes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is limited.

Creamy Purple Sweet Potato Mash

• Preparation time: 15 minutes.
• Cooking time: 20 minutes.
• Total time: 35 minutes.

This approach saves approximately 20 minutes compared to traditional mashed potato recipes that require longer boiling times for regular potatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Recipe 1: Roasted Purple Sweet Potato Wedges

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice each purple sweet potato lengthwise into four pieces, then cut those quarters into two or three uniform wedges. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking and that perfect contrast between crispy exterior and tender interior.

Step 2: Season the Wedges

Transfer the potato wedges to a large bowl, pour over the olive oil, and toss well to coat every piece evenly. Sprinkle in salt, cracked black pepper, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and the cayenne if you’re craving some heat. Mix thoroughly to ensure each wedge is well-seasoned. The oil helps the seasonings adhere while promoting that desirable caramelization.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Arrange the seasoned potato wedges on a parchment-lined baking tray, making sure they’re spread out in one layer for even roasting. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

The wedges are done once the centers are soft and the edges turn beautifully crisp and golden. For extra crispiness, broil for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Dish them up straight from the oven while they’re piping hot and crunchy, sprinkle on some extra fresh herbs for a tasty finishing touch if you like.

Recipe 2: Creamy Purple Sweet Potato Mash

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place the peeled and cubed purple sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Drop a pinch of salt into the pot, bring the water to a lively boil, then lower the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer away for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and practically melt when pierced.

Step 2: Drain and Dry

Thoroughly drain the potatoes in a colander. Once drained, pop the potatoes back into the warm pot for a minute or two so any leftover steam can escape. This little trick keeps your mash from turning watery and helps that gorgeous purple color stay vibrant.

Step 3: Add Ingredients and Mash

Add the butter, allowing it to melt into the hot potatoes. Pour in the milk or cream, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with additional milk if needed.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Transfer the purple mash to a serving bowl. Make a little indent in the middle of your mash and drop in a knob of butter if you’re feeling indulgent. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and a light dusting of additional cinnamon for a beautiful presentation that highlights the vibrant purple color.

Nutritional Information

Purple sweet potatoes aren’t just visually stunning, they’re nutritional powerhouses too! Their vibrant color comes from anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in blueberries and other purple foods. Here’s the breakdown per serving:

Roasted Purple Sweet Potato Wedges (1 serving, approx. 1 potato):

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 4.5g (primarily from olive oil)
• Vitamin A: 260% of RDI
• Vitamin C: 65% of RDI
• Potassium: 15% of RDI

Creamy Purple Sweet Potato Mash (1 serving, approx. ½ cup):

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Vitamin A: 260% of RDI
• Vitamin C: 50% of RDI
• Calcium: 4% of RDI
• Iron: 6% of RDI

Research indicates that the anthocyanins in purple sweet potatoes may have up to 150% more antioxidant activity than blueberries, making them an excellent choice for supporting immune health and reducing inflammation.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Both of these purple sweet potato recipe options are already nutritious, but here are some modifications to suit various dietary needs:

For Lower Calorie Options:

• Use an air fryer for the wedges to reduce oil by 75% while maintaining crispiness.
• Swap out the butter in your mash for Greek yogurt to add extra protein and cut down on the calories.
• Skip the maple syrup in the mash and rely on the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

For Different Dietary Needs:

• Gluten-Free: Both recipes are naturally gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter and coconut milk for the mash.
• Paleo: Substitute ghee for butter and use coconut milk in the mash.
• Keto-Friendly: While sweet potatoes are higher in carbs, serve smaller portions as a treat alongside keto-friendly main dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your purple sweet potato dishes with these complementary pairings:

For the Roasted Wedges:

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal with vibrant color contrast.
• Create a dipping station with sriracha mayo, herb-infused Greek yogurt, and avocado crema.
• Add to a Buddha bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tahini drizzle.
• Top with a fried egg and sliced avocado for a nutritious breakfast.

For the Purple Mash:

• Use as a colorful bed for braised short ribs or grilled lamb chops.
• Serve in individual ramekins topped with a marshmallow and briefly broiled for a dessert-like treat.
• Layer in glass jars with Greek yogurt and granola for a visually striking breakfast parfait.
• Form into patties, lightly dust with cornmeal, and pan-fry for purple sweet potato cakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can encounter challenges when working with purple sweet potatoes. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Overcooking: Purple varieties can become mushy more quickly than orange sweet potatoes. Check for doneness earlier than you might with other varieties.
2. Color Fading: The vibrant purple color can fade when overexposed to acid. Add any acidic ingredients like lemon juice just before serving to maintain the striking hue.
3. Uneven Roasting: Inconsistent sizing leads to some pieces burning while others remain undercooked. Take the extra time to cut uniform pieces.
4. Bland Seasoning: These purple sweet potatoes have an earthier taste than their orange cousins and really come alive with bold, generous seasoning. Go all in with herbs and spices, they’re what make the flavors pop.
5. Overcrowding: Always spread the wedges out so each one has room to roast instead of steam. Crowding creates steam that prevents the desirable caramelization and crispiness.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy these purple delights even days after preparation:

For Raw Purple Sweet Potatoes:

• Store them somewhere cool and out of direct light, skip the fridge and they’ll keep nicely for about two weeks.
• Keep away from onions, which can accelerate sprouting.
• Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and promote spoilage.

For Cooked Leftovers:

• Roasted Wedges: Pop them into a sealed container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Purple Mash: Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and stir thoroughly to restore creaminess.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze both of these dishes for up to three months without losing flavor. Portion into freezer-safe containers for easy single servings.

Conclusion

These two delicious purple sweet potato recipe options showcase the versatility and visual appeal of this often-overlooked root vegetable. Whether you prefer the satisfying crunch of perfectly roasted wedges or the comforting creaminess of a well-seasoned mash, purple sweet potatoes offer a nutritional boost alongside their stunning presentation.

Have you ever given purple sweet potatoes a try in your kitchen? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! And if you give either of these recipes a try, please share your results and any creative modifications you made. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with friends who might appreciate adding more colorful, nutrient-dense foods to their cooking repertoire!