What To Know
- A high-yielding variety with a rich orange color, the Covington has a slightly drier texture than the Beauregard, making it ideal for grilling into wedges or slices.
- Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and grill over direct heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly charred.
- Serve them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
Grilling sweet potatoes is an art form that transforms this humble vegetable into a culinary masterpiece. With its naturally sweet flavor and versatile texture, the sweet potato is an ideal candidate for the grill. But not all sweet potatoes are created equal, and choosing the best one for grilling is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into the nuances of different sweet potato varieties, their grilling characteristics, and the secrets to achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness.
The Best Sweet Potato for Grilling
When it comes to grilling sweet potatoes, the key is to strike a delicate balance between sweetness and firmness. The ideal variety should have a high sugar content for natural sweetness, a dense texture that holds up well on the grill, and a skin that caramelizes beautifully.
After extensive research and experimentation, we have determined that the following sweet potato varieties are the best for grilling:
- Beauregard: Known for its intense sweetness, deep orange flesh, and firm texture, the Beauregard is an excellent choice for grilling.
- Covington: A high-yielding variety with a rich orange color, the Covington has a slightly drier texture than the Beauregard, making it ideal for grilling into wedges or slices.
- Georgia Jet: This elongated sweet potato is characterized by its bright orange flesh and firm texture. Its sweetness is moderate, making it a versatile option for grilling.
- Porto Rico: With its deep red skin and orange flesh, the Porto Rico is a smaller, sweeter variety that grills well into whole or halved portions.
- Hannah: A hybrid variety with a deep orange color and firm texture, the Hannah has a slightly nutty flavor that complements grilling.
Selecting the Perfect Sweet Potato
When selecting sweet potatoes for grilling, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. Avoid potatoes with any signs of sprouting or decay. The size and shape of the sweet potatoes will depend on your desired grilling method. If you plan to grill them whole, choose larger potatoes. For grilling wedges or slices, smaller potatoes are more manageable.
Preparing Sweet Potatoes for Grilling
Before grilling, thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes and pat them dry. If desired, you can peel the sweet potatoes or leave the skin on for a more rustic flavor. To prevent the potatoes from drying out, brush them lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt and pepper, or add your favorite herbs and spices.
Grilling Techniques
The grilling technique you choose will depend on the desired texture and presentation.
- Whole: Grill whole sweet potatoes over indirect heat for about 1 hour, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Halved: Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and grill over direct heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly charred.
- Wedges: Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges and grill over direct heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
- Slices: Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds and grill over direct heat for 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Caramelizing the Skin
To achieve that irresistible caramelized skin, grill the sweet potatoes over direct heat for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the potatoes to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled sweet potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement a wide range of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. Serve them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
The Perfect Finish: Sauces and Toppings
Elevate your grilled sweet potatoes with a variety of sauces and toppings:
- Maple Bourbon Butter: Whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, and a splash of bourbon for a decadent sauce.
- Sriracha Honey Glaze: Combine honey, Sriracha sauce, and a touch of soy sauce for a spicy-sweet glaze.
- Roasted Garlic Aioli: Puree roasted garlic with mayonnaise, olive oil, and lemon juice for a savory and flavorful dipping sauce.
- Avocado Crema: Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, and lime juice for a creamy and refreshing topping.
- Candied Pecans: Toast pecans in brown sugar and butter for a crunchy and sweet addition.
Grilling Sweet Potatoes: A Culinary Adventure
Grilling sweet potatoes is a culinary adventure that rewards you with a delicious and versatile dish. By choosing the best varieties, preparing them properly, and experimenting with grilling techniques and flavors, you can create grilled sweet potatoes that will delight your taste buds and elevate your grilling game to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know when my grilled sweet potatoes are done?
Pierce the potatoes with a fork. If it slides in easily, they are done.
2. Can I grill sweet potatoes in foil?
Yes, wrapping sweet potatoes in foil will help them cook more evenly and prevent them from drying out.
3. How can I prevent my grilled sweet potatoes from burning?
Grill the potatoes over indirect heat or use a grill pan to prevent direct exposure to the flames.
4. Can I grill sweet potatoes in the oven?
Yes, you can roast sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 hour, or until tender.
5. What are some creative ways to serve grilled sweet potatoes?
Try grilling sweet potato fries, mashing them with spices, or using them as a base for a sweet potato casserole.
