These Chili + Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! The sweet potatoes are beautifully roasted to perfection and drizzled with honey and lime juice for a fresh kick.
Trust me, this dish is hard to resist! Every bite gives you that warm sweetness, with just the right amount of zing. I love serving this as a side dish or even as a snack when I’m feeling peckish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm and smooth skin; avoid any that are soft or have blemishes. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes work, but they’ll have a different flavor.
Honey: Honey gives sweetness and helps caramelize the edges. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup are great alternatives that work just as well.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and flavor. You could substitute it with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for a slightly different taste without losing the healthy fats.
Chili Powder: This is what gives the sweet potatoes a kick! If you want a milder flavor, you could use paprika or even cut the amount in half. For more heat, add cayenne pepper to the mix!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice can work as a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Tender and Caramelized?
To achieve perfectly tender and caramelized sweet potatoes, follow these helpful steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures good roasting.
- Be sure to cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise, maximizing the surface area that gets caramelized.
- Brush the honey-chili mixture generously. This not only flavors but also helps with caramelization.
- Place them cut side down on the lined baking sheet. This position gets the most direct heat.
- Roasting time is key! Aim for 25-30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily for the perfect texture.
Lastly, don’t skip the lime juice drizzle after roasting. It elevates the dish and enhances the flavors wonderfully!
Chili + Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Lime Juice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
For the Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the sweet potatoes roast perfectly! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and scrub your sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel, then slice each potato in half lengthwise. This allows them to roast evenly and soak up all the flavors!
3. Make the Honey-Chili Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined into a smooth glaze.
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Using a brush or a spoon, generously spread the honey-chili mixture over the cut sides of each sweet potato half. Make sure to cover them well so they get all that wonderful flavor!
5. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potatoes cut side down on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. They’re done when they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can check by poking them with a fork—if they feel soft, you’re good to go!
6. Finish and Serve:
After roasting, carefully take them out of the oven and flip the sweet potatoes over so the cut side is facing up. Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over them while they’re still warm to give that zesty flavor. Finally, sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your delicious Chili + Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes as a side or even as a light meal! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Varieties of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are traditional, you can also use the white or purple varieties. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness with a fork.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan option or don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave nectar work great as substitutes! Use the same amount as you would honey for similar sweetness.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For a crispy texture, a quick reheat in the oven is best!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To increase the heat, you can add more chili powder or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh chopped jalapeños would also be a great addition if you enjoy more spice!
