These perfect smoked sweet potatoes are a delicious treat! They have a tender inside with a yummy smoky flavor on the outside, making them hard to resist.
Plus, they’re super easy to make on the grill. I love to serve them right off the smoker with a sprinkle of salt. They always steal the spotlight at my BBQs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! Look for firm, unbruised ones. You can use garnet or jewel sweet potatoes for their sweet flavor. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try butternut squash, although cook time may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness. Feel free to replace it with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for different flavors. I enjoy using those for a slight twist!
Salt & Pepper: Basic, but important! Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider using sea salt for a more nuanced flavor. Adding garlic powder can enhance the taste if you like.
Unsalted Butter: This makes the dish creamy and indulgent. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, use plant-based butter or coconut butter. It won’t taste the same, but still delicious!
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add a lovely touch. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs like Italian seasoning can work in a pinch, just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smoky Flavor?
Getting that smoky flavor is key for this recipe. Make sure your smoker is preheated to the right temperature, around 225°F. This low and slow method allows the sweet potatoes to absorb the smoke flavor beautifully.
- Use wood chips like hickory or applewood for a nice, sweet smoke. Soak the chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.
- Don’t open the smoker too often; this lets heat and smoke escape. Try to keep it closed as much as possible while cooking.
- Check the sweet potatoes after 2 hours for doneness. They should be tender inside when poked with a fork. If they’re not done, smoke them a bit longer!
How to Make Perfect Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 2 to 3 hours for smoking. So, overall, plan for about 3 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy these tasty sweet potatoes. Just a little patience, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method is perfect for sweet potatoes, allowing them to develop a wonderful smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a towel. This cleaning step is important to keep your potatoes fresh and tasty!
3. Prick and Season the Potatoes:
Using a fork, prick each sweet potato several times. This will let steam escape while they cook. Now, rub each potato with olive oil and generously season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to add flavor.
4. Smoke the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the seasoned sweet potatoes directly on the smoker grates. Let them smoke for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know they are done when they are tender and a fork or knife can easily slide in. Take your time and let the smoker do its magic!
5. Rest and Fluff:
Once your sweet potatoes are done smoking, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This will help them stay moist. Then, carefully cut a slit lengthwise down each sweet potato, allowing steam to escape. Use a fork to fluff up the insides for a delicious, creamy texture!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Top each sweet potato with a tablespoon of unsalted butter for richness. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your smoked sweet potatoes are now ready! Serve them warm as a delightful side dish or a fulfilling main course. Enjoy the smoky, buttery goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of sweet potato, including Japanese or purple sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may slightly vary depending on their size and type, so check for doneness with a fork or knife.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Smoked Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Sweet Potatoes Without a Smoker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for around 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the olive oil for a smoky flavor, if desired!
How Do I Know When the Sweet Potatoes Are Done?
They’re done when a fork or knife easily slides into the flesh. If you want to be extra sure, you can use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 205°F (96°C) for perfect tenderness.
