These Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges are a tasty treat that brings together the sweetness of maple syrup and a little kick from chili powder. They are roasted to perfection, crispy outside, and soft inside!
They make a fantastic side dish or snack—perfect for game night or a cozy dinner. I love serving them with a sprinkle of salt and a dip on the side. Trust me, they disappear fast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are essential here for their natural sweetness! If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, but the flavor will change. Yukon Gold or even butternut squash can also work, giving a different texture and taste.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for substitutions, try honey or agave nectar for a similar effect. Just keep in mind that honey will change the flavor a bit!
Chili Powder: This gives the wedges a delightful heat. If you don’t have chili powder, you could use cayenne pepper for a stronger kick, or paprika for a milder flavor. Adjust the amount according to how spicy you like it!
Olive Oil: This is used for roasting. Feel free to substitute it with avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor. Just remember, different oils have different smoke points, so check that!
How Can I Ensure My Sweet Potato Wedges Are Crispy?
Achieving that crispy texture is all about preparation and cooking. Here’s how:
- **Cut Evenly**: Make sure your wedges are uniform in size (around 2 inches thick) so they cook evenly.
- **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet**: Spread the wedges out on the baking sheet so they aren’t touching; this lets the heat circulate and makes them crispier.
- **Turn Them Halfway**: Flip the wedges once while roasting to ensure both sides get golden brown.
- **Use Enough Oil**: Coat them well in oil to help caramelize and crisp them up.
By following these tips, your sweet potato wedges will come out perfectly crispy every time!
How to Make Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wedges:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges (about 2 inches thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick side dish or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help your wedges get crispy and caramelized. Next, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Maple Chili Mixture:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil, maple syrup, chili powder, smoked paprika (if you like a smoky flavor), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed into a lovely dressing.
3. Coat the Sweet Potato Wedges:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl with your maple chili mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure each wedge is evenly coated with that sweet and spicy goodness.
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the coated wedges out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure none of them are overlapping; this makes sure they roast evenly and become crispy.
5. Roast the Wedges:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to turn the wedges halfway through the cooking time so they get nice and golden on all sides. You’re looking for them to be tender inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the wedges are done roasting, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl. For a pop of color, garnish with thin slices of fresh red chili and some chopped cilantro or parsley.
7. Enjoy!:
Serve your warm maple chili sweet potato wedges right away. They make a delicious side dish or a fun snack on their own. Pair them with a creamy dip or your favorite sauce for an extra treat!
Enjoy your sweet and spicy maple chili sweet potato wedges! 🌟
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While sweet potatoes bring a wonderful sweetness to the dish, you could substitute with regular potatoes like Yukon Gold for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses maple syrup and does not contain any animal products. Just check the labels on your olive oil and any sauces you pair it with, to ensure they are vegan as well!
How Do I Store Leftover Wedges?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get them crispy again, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Add Extra Spice to the Wedges?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an added kick!
