how to make sweet potatoes on the stove top

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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17-01-2025

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Meta Description: Learn how to make perfectly cooked sweet potatoes on the stovetop! This easy guide covers boiling, steaming, and pan-frying methods with tips for achieving the ideal texture and flavor. Discover the best ways to prepare this nutritious and versatile root vegetable for your next meal.

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. But did you know they're incredibly easy to cook? This guide will walk you through several stovetop methods, ensuring you get perfectly cooked sweet potatoes every time. Whether you prefer them soft and fluffy or slightly crispy, we've got you covered. Let's get started!

Boiling Sweet Potatoes on the Stovetop

This method is perfect for making mashed sweet potatoes or adding them to soups and stews.

What you'll need:

• 1-2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes (or leave unpeeled for extra nutrients and fiber)
• Water to cover the sweet potatoes
• Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine: Place the chopped sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan. Add enough water to cover them completely.
2. Boil: Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
4. Drain: Drain the sweet potatoes in a colander. Season with salt if desired.

Steaming Sweet Potatoes on the Stovetop

Steaming retains more nutrients than boiling, resulting in a slightly firmer texture.

What you'll need:

• 1-2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, and chopped into 1-inch cubes (or leave whole for larger potatoes)
• Steamer basket
• Medium saucepan with about 1 inch of water
• Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill: Fill the saucepan with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Steam: Place the sweet potatoes in the steamer basket and set it over the boiling water. Make sure the water doesn't touch the potatoes.
3. Cover: Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Check for doneness with a fork. Larger whole sweet potatoes may take longer.
4. Season: Remove the sweet potatoes from the steamer and season with salt if desired.

Pan-Frying Sweet Potatoes on the Stovetop

This method gives you deliciously crispy sweet potatoes, ideal as a side dish.

What you'll need:

• 1-2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or diced (about ¼-inch thick)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or other cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika

Instructions:

1. Heat: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry: Add the sweet potato slices to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
3. Cook: Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and tender. Flip occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.

Tips for Perfect Stovetop Sweet Potatoes

• Choose the right sweet potato: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without bruises or soft spots.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: When pan-frying, ensure the sweet potato slices aren't overcrowded to allow for even browning and crisping.
• Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of sweet potato, and your stove's heat. Always check for doneness with a fork.
• Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to enhance the flavor of your sweet potatoes. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are particularly delicious pairings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I know when sweet potatoes are done cooking?

A: Sweet potatoes are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and feel tender.

Q: Can I cook sweet potatoes with their skins on?

A: Absolutely! Leaving the skins on adds fiber and nutrients. Just make sure to thoroughly wash them before cooking.

Q: How can I store leftover sweet potatoes?

A: Store leftover cooked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Mastering these stovetop cooking methods opens up a world of delicious possibilities, from simple side dishes to more complex recipes. Enjoy!