Purple Sweet Potato Recipe: 5 Delicious Ways to Cook

Purple sweet potatoes are not just a colorful addition to your plate; rather, they’re a culinary delight with a unique flavor and texture that sets them apart from their orange counterparts. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to try something new, a purple sweet potato recipe is the perfect way to explore this vibrant ingredient. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of purple sweet potatoes, covering everything from their varieties to creative ways to enjoy them. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking with purple sweet potatoes!

What Are Purple Sweet Potatoes?

Exploring Different Varieties of Purple Sweet Potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes come in several varieties, each with its own distinct taste, texture, and appearance. To learn more about the different types and uses of purple sweet potatoes, check out this comprehensive guide on purple sweet potatoes.

• Stokes Purple Sweet Potato: Originating from North Carolina, this variety is known for its deep purple skin and rich, dense flesh. It’s perfect for roasting and adds a beautiful pop of color to any dish.
• Okinawan Sweet Potato: Also known as Japanese purple sweet potatoes, these have a creamy white skin and vibrant purple flesh. They’re often sweeter and softer, making them ideal for both savory dishes and desserts.
• Ube (Purple Yam) vs. Purple Sweet Potato: Though often confused with purple sweet potatoes, ube is actually a yam. Ube has a sweeter, more floral flavor and is frequently used in desserts like ice cream or cakes. However, for most purple sweet potato recipes, you’ll want to stick with actual sweet potatoes.

Purple sweet potatoes are a colorful and unique variety with a rich cultural background; learn more about the history and origin of sweet potatoes to appreciate their journey from ancient cultivation to modern cuisine.

Unique Characteristics of Purple Sweet Potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes are more than just visually striking; they offer a unique, subtly sweet taste and creamy texture. When cooked, they can become incredibly versatile, lending themselves to both savory and sweet dishes. With their dense flesh, they hold up well in recipes that require longer cooking times, making them perfect for everything from roasting to mashing.

How to Prepare Purple Sweet Potatoes for Any Recipe

Should You Peel Purple Sweet Potatoes?

One common question when making a purple sweet potato recipe is whether or not to peel the potatoes. The skin of purple sweet potatoes is completely edible, so you don’t have to peel them if you don’t want to. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, particularly for mashes or desserts, peeling might be a good idea.

• Leaving the Skin On: Adds a slightly earthy flavor and extra texture to your dishes, perfect for roasting or fries.
• Peeling the Skin Off: Provides a smoother, creamier texture, ideal for mashed potatoes or desserts.

Popular Cooking Methods

Purple sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be prepared in many different ways. To illustrate, here are some popular methods to get the most out of your purple sweet potato recipe:

• Roasting: Brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a crispy exterior. Perfect for a side dish or salad topping.
• Boiling and Mashing: Creates a creamy, smooth texture that works well as a side dish or base for other recipes.
• Making Purple Sweet Potato Fries: Slice them thin, season, and bake or air-fry for a healthy and colorful alternative to regular fries.
• Using in Desserts: Their flavor makes them a great addition to pies, cakes, and even mochi.

Delicious Recipes to Try

Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Spices

This purple sweet potato recipe is perfect for a side dish that truly stands out. In particular, roasting enhances their natural sweetness and creates a crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 large purple sweet potatoes (Stokes or Okinawan)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes, then slice them into 1-inch rounds.
3. Toss the slices in olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are crispy and golden.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Purple Sweet Potato Mash Recipe

For a creamy and colorful side dish, try this easy purple sweet potato recipe for mashed potatoes. Not only is it perfect for holiday dinners, but it’s also great any time you want to add a pop of color to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 large purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup milk or dairy-free alternative
• 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
3. Add milk and butter, then mash until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main course.

Purple Sweet Potato Fries: A Tasty and Healthy Snack

If you’re craving something crispy and delicious, then try making purple sweet potato fries. Overall, this purple sweet potato recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthier version of fries with a twist!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium purple sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin strips.
3. Toss with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
5. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Purple Sweet Potato Dessert Recipes

Purple sweet potatoes are perfect for creating stunning desserts. Here are two sweet options to try:

Purple Sweet Potato Pie

This twist on a classic pie uses a purple sweet potato recipe for a vibrant and delicious dessert that will impress any guest.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups purple sweet potato puree
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Pre-made pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the sweet potato puree, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl until smooth.
3. Pour into the pie crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until set.
4. Let cool before serving.

Purple Sweet Potato Mochi

For something a little different, try this purple sweet potato recipe for mochi—a chewy and sweet Japanese treat!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup purple sweet potato puree
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Mix the rice flour, sweet potato puree, sugar, and water in a bowl until smooth.
2. Pour into a greased baking dish and steam for 30-35 minutes.
3. Allow to cool, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Creative Ways to Enjoy this Dish

Pairing your dishes with homemade bread can elevate the experience. If you love baking, try using your sourdough discard in these sourdough discard recipes.

Japanese-Style Purple Sweet Potato Dishes

Purple sweet potatoes are a staple in Japanese cuisine. Here are a few ways they’re traditionally enjoyed:

• Daigaku Imo (Glazed Sweet Potatoes): Purple sweet potato chunks fried and coated in a sweet syrup made from soy sauce and sugar. Perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
• Miso-Glazed Purple Sweet Potatoes: Roast slices of purple sweet potato with a savory miso glaze for a unique umami flavor.

Incorporating Purple Sweet Potatoes into Various Cuisines

Purple sweet potatoes can be used in a variety of cuisines beyond just Japanese cooking. Here are some ideas:

• Mediterranean Style: Serve roasted purple sweet potatoes with a side like cottage cheese for a delicious contrast. If you’re looking for more ideas, here’s what to eat with cottage cheese.
• American BBQ: Swap out regular fries for purple sweet potato fries at your next barbecue for a fun and colorful twist.

Serve roasted purple sweet potatoes with high-protein sides like cottage cheese. For more ideas, explore these delicious cottage cheese recipes that pair perfectly with sweet potatoes.

Tips for Buying and Storing Purple Sweet Potatoes

Where to Buy?

You can find purple sweet potatoes at most large grocery stores, specialty markets, and farmer’s markets. Specifically, look for them in the produce section alongside regular sweet potatoes.

• Availability: Purple sweet potatoes are often available year-round, but they might be more abundant in the fall.

How to Store Purple Sweet Potatoes Properly

Storing your sweet potatoes correctly will keep them fresh and flavorful for longer.

• Room Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place like a pantry, away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigeration: If you want to store them for longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator, but be aware that this can sometimes change their texture.
• Serving Idea: Pair your purple sweet potato dishes with a slice of freshly baked bread. For a unique twist, consider making your own loaf with these cottage cheese bread recipe baking tips.

FAQs

Do Purple Sweet Potatoes Taste Different?

Yes, purple sweet potatoes have a slightly different flavor compared to orange sweet potatoes. They have a distinct flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for various recipes, both savory and sweet.

What Are Purple Sweet Potatoes Good For in Cooking?

Purple sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile in cooking. For example, they can be roasted, boiled, mashed, or even used in desserts like pies and mochi. Moreover, their unique color makes them a great addition to any dish that needs a bit of visual flair.

Should You Peel Purple Sweet Potatoes?

Peeling is optional when preparing a purple sweet potato recipe. The skin is edible, but if you prefer a smoother texture, especially for mashes or desserts, peeling may be beneficial.

How Do Japanese Eat Purple Sweet Potatoes?

In Japan, purple sweet potatoes are often enjoyed as snacks or side dishes. For instance, popular recipes include Daigaku Imo, in which the potatoes are glazed with sweet syrup, or alternatively, they are roasted with savory ingredients like miso, creating a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

Purple sweet potatoes are a versatile and visually stunning ingredient that can transform any dish. Whether you’re roasting them with herbs, mashing them for a side, or using them in a colorful dessert, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this unique tuber. With these recipes and tips, you’re now ready to make the most of your next purple sweet potato recipe.