These Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges are a tasty treat! They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a great mix of sweet maple syrup and a spicy chili kick.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of them! I love serving these with a dipping sauce on the side. They make every meal feel special. Just watch them disappear! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. If you’re looking for a substitution, butternut squash also works great, but the flavor will be a little different.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can replace it with agave syrup or honey, but keep in mind that honey will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Chili Powder: This spice gives your wedges a kick! If you prefer less heat, you can use mild chili powder. For a spicier option, cayenne pepper works well but use it sparingly.
Olive Oil: It helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative, avocado oil can be used. You might also use coconut oil for a different flavor.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potato Wedges Crispy?
Achieving crispy sweet potato wedges can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! The key is to ensure they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around each wedge.
- Preheat your oven fully to 425°F (220°C) before baking. This ensures they start to crisp immediately.
- Cut the wedges evenly to promote uniform cooking.
- Coat them generously with oil and spices; this helps with the crisping process.
- Flip them halfway through baking to ensure both sides get crispy!
Taking these steps will make your wedges perfectly crispy and delicious!
Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red chili flakes (adjust based on heat preference)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy this delicious and quick dish as a snack or side at your next meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Maple Chili Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, add the olive oil, maple syrup, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Whisk everything together until it creates a smooth mixture. This will be the flavor base for your sweet potatoes!
3. Coat the Sweet Potato Wedges:
Add your sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss them gently until every wedge is evenly coated with the maple chili mixture. Make sure they are well covered so that the flavors really stick!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated sweet potato wedges on the baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. It’s important that they aren’t crowded, as this helps them become nice and crispy while they bake.
5. Bake the Wedges:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure to flip the wedges halfway through to ensure they crisp up evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and caramelized, and the insides are tender!
6. Ready to Serve:
Once baked, remove the wedges from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and extra flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges warm and enjoy them on their own or with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or your favorite dipping sauce. They’ll be a hit at any meal!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your flavorful and delightful wedges!
Can I Use Different Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for regular orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, you can use purple sweet potatoes or even Japanese sweet potatoes for a unique taste and color! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different varieties may have slightly different baking times.
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you’re out of maple syrup, no worries! You can substitute it with honey, agave syrup, or even brown sugar dissolved in a little warm water. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Wedges?
To store leftovers, let the wedges cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore their crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses plant-based ingredients. If you’re looking for additional creaminess, feel free to mix in some vegan yogurt or serve with a vegan dipping sauce!
