Sweet potatoes are a versatile and healthy food choice that can be enjoyed in many different ways, but grilling them takes their natural sweetness and flavor to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking for a new side dish for your summer BBQ, or just craving something different, grilled sweet potatoes are the perfect addition to your meal. In this article, we’ll explore the best methods for grilling sweet potatoes, from how to grill sweet potatoes on the BBQ to grilling sweet potatoes on a Blackstone griddle. You’ll also find helpful tips, tricks, and variations on sweet potato recipes to make your grilled potatoes stand out.
Why Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilled sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a great choice for anyone looking to boost their health. Additionally, grilling sweet potatoes enhances their natural sugars, giving them a caramelized, smoky flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a great alternative to regular potatoes, offering a slightly sweeter taste and a boost of antioxidants.
Grilled sweet potatoes are also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish, added to salads, or enjoyed as a main course. Whether you cook them whole, sliced, or cubed, grilled sweet potatoes are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Now, let’s dive into the best ways to grill sweet potatoes.
How To Grill Sweet Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
Grilling sweet potatoes might sound complicated, but with a few simple steps, you can master the technique. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to grill sweet potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled or unpeeled, depending on your preference)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, or any other seasoning of your choice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. If you prefer, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds a nice texture and helps the sweet potatoes hold their shape while grilling. - Cut the Sweet Potatoes
There are several ways to cut sweet potatoes for grilling:- Whole Sweet Potatoes: Simply pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork a few times and leave them whole for a more rustic approach.
- Slices: Cut the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds or wedges if you want quicker cooking times and a crispy exterior.
- Cubes: If you prefer bite-sized pieces, cut the sweet potatoes into small cubes.
- Season the Sweet Potatoes
Brush the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cinnamon can add extra flavor to your grilled sweet potatoes. - Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). If you’re grilling sweet potatoes on a BBQ, you can use either direct or indirect heat depending on the size of your pieces. - Grill the Sweet Potatoes
- Whole Sweet Potatoes: Place the whole sweet potatoes directly on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for about 40 to 50 minutes, turning them occasionally. Check doneness by piercing them with a fork or knife. They should be soft and tender inside.
- Slices or Wedges: If you’re grilling slices or wedges, place them directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, until the sweet potatoes are tender and have beautiful grill marks. Make sure to flip them gently to avoid breaking them.
- Cubes: Grilled sweet potato cubes will cook quickly. Place them in a grill basket or on skewers and grill for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly charred.
- Serve and Enjoy
Once the sweet potatoes are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
Sweet Potato Recipes Grilled: Variations You Can Try
While the basic method of grilling sweet potatoes is fantastic, you can also get creative with different flavors and combinations. Here are some grilled sweet potato recipe ideas to inspire your next BBQ.
1. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon
For a sweet and savory twist, drizzle grilled sweet potatoes with honey and sprinkle them with cinnamon. The honey enhances the sweetness of the potatoes, while the cinnamon adds warmth. This makes a perfect side dish for your summer BBQ or even a healthy dessert option.
2. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
If you’re a fan of savory flavors, try tossing your grilled sweet potatoes with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. The garlic gives them a delicious aroma, and the Parmesan adds a rich, salty finish. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or steak.
3. Sweet Potato on the Blackstone Griddle
Grilling sweet potatoes on a Blackstone griddle is a fantastic option for those who love even heat distribution and a crispy exterior. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin slices or wedges, season them with your favorite spices, and cook them on the Blackstone for about 10 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an evenly cooked texture.
4. Sweet Potato on BBQ with BBQ Sauce
For a smoky, tangy flavor, brush your sweet potato slices or wedges with your favorite BBQ sauce. Place them on the grill and cook as you normally would. The sauce will caramelize, adding a delicious layer of flavor. This recipe is perfect for BBQ lovers and will be a hit at your next cookout.
5. Spicy Grilled Sweet Potatoes
For a little heat, mix chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin into the seasoning for your grilled sweet potatoes. This spicy version is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a kick with their grilled dishes. Pair them with a cooling dip like sour cream or yogurt to balance the heat.
6. Sweet Potato Skewers
Cut sweet potatoes into cubes and thread them onto skewers along with other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Grill the skewers for a colorful, vegetable-packed option. You can marinate the skewered vegetables in olive oil, lemon, and herbs for extra flavor.
Grilling Sweet Potatoes: Tips and Tricks
To ensure your grilled sweet potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to follow:
- Soak in Water: If you’re grilling sweet potato slices or wedges, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook more evenly and reduces the chance of burning on the grill.
- Use a Grill Basket: If you’re grilling cubes or smaller pieces of sweet potatoes, use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.
- Control the Heat: If you’re grilling whole sweet potatoes, use indirect heat to cook them slowly and thoroughly. If you’re using slices or wedges, direct heat will give you that perfect crispy exterior.
- Keep the Skin On: Leaving the skin on the sweet potatoes while grilling helps to lock in flavor and nutrients. The skin also adds texture and prevents the potatoes from falling apart.
Sweet Potatoes on the Blackstone: A Griddle Grilling Alternative
While grilling on a traditional BBQ is the most common method, using a Blackstone griddle to cook your sweet potatoes is a fantastic alternative. The Blackstone provides even heat distribution and creates a crisp, golden exterior on the sweet potatoes while keeping the inside tender.
To cook sweet potatoes on the Blackstone:
- Preheat the griddle over medium-high heat.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds or wedges, then toss them in olive oil and your desired seasonings.
- Place the sweet potatoes on the griddle, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
- Serve hot, garnished with herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Best Grilled Potatoes: Why Sweet Potatoes Are the Perfect Option
While regular potatoes are often used for grilling, sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor profile and texture that makes them an excellent choice for BBQs. Not only do they hold up well on the grill, but their natural sweetness balances perfectly with savory or spicy seasonings. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a healthier option, rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Sweet potatoes also offer more versatility compared to regular potatoes. From sweet and savory recipes to simple grilled variations, sweet potatoes allow for more creative experimentation. Whether you’re grilling them on the BBQ, cooking them on a Blackstone, or simply adding a special seasoning, sweet potatoes are sure to impress.
Conclusion: Sweet Potatoes on the Grill for Every Occasion
Grilled sweet potatoes are an easy, healthy, and flavorful option for your next BBQ or cookout. Whether you’re grilling them on the BBQ, the Blackstone griddle, or in a basket, sweet potatoes provide endless possibilities for delicious sides and mains. Their natural sweetness, combined with a variety of seasonings, makes them the perfect addition to any meal.
So, next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to add sweet potatoes to your menu. With the right technique and a little creativity, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love. Happy grilling!
