Introduction
Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be transformed into a delightful dish suitable for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, making for a delicious side or a comforting dessert. With a touch of orange zest and warm spices, this dish is sure to impress family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 large sweet potatoes
½ cup melted unsalted butter, divided
1 teaspoon packed orange zest
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
¾ cup chopped pecan halves
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup dry oatmeal
¼ teaspoon salt
Prep Time
About 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes and pat them dry.
3. Poke holes all over each potato using a fork.
4. Place the potatoes on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then flip the potatoes and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
6. While the potatoes are baking, prepare the topping:
– In a bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, oatmeal, ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
– Stir to blend the ingredients.
– Mix in ¼ cup of the melted butter until the mixture forms sandy clumps.
– Refrigerate the topping mixture until ready to use.
7. Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly.
8. Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
9. Scoop out some of the flesh from each half, leaving at least ¼ inch of the insides intact to maintain the shape.
10. Place the scooped-out flesh into a medium bowl.
11. Add the remaining ¼ cup melted butter, packed orange zest, and ½ teaspoon salt to the bowl.
12. Mash and mix the ingredients until smooth.
13. Spoon the filling back into each potato half.
14. Top each filled potato half with the prepared topping mixture.
15. Place the filled and topped potato halves back onto the baking sheet.
16. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is browned.
17. Serve immediately.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Poke Holes
Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 4: Line the Baking Sheet
Place the potatoes on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
Bake the potatoes for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, flip the potatoes over and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, oatmeal, ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir the ingredients together until blended.
Step 7: Form the Topping Mixture
Mix in ¼ cup of the melted butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles sandy clumps.
Step 8: Refrigerate the Topping
Refrigerate the topping mixture until it is ready to use.
Step 9: Cool the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly for easier handling.
Step 10: Slice the Potatoes
Carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise.
Step 11: Scoop Out the Flesh
Scoop out some of the flesh from each half, leaving at least ¼ inch of the insides intact to maintain the potato’s shape.
Step 12: Prepare the Filling
Place the scooped-out flesh into a medium bowl. Add the remaining ¼ cup melted butter, packed orange zest, and ½ teaspoon salt to the bowl.
Step 13: Mash the Filling
Mash and mix the ingredients in the bowl until smooth and well combined.
Step 14: Fill the Potato Halves
Spoon the prepared filling back into each potato half, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 15: Add the Topping
Top each filled potato half generously with the prepared topping mixture.
Step 16: Bake the Filled Potatoes
Place the filled and topped potato halves back onto the baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is browned.
Step 17: Serve
Serve the sweet potato halves immediately while they are warm.
Notes
Storage
Leftover stuffed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed sweet potatoes can be served as a side dish or as a standalone meal, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Variations
Consider adding mini marshmallows, using different nuts, or varying the spices to customize the flavors to your liking.
Cook techniques
Preparing Sweet Potatoes
Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel to ensure even cooking. Poking holes in the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
Baking Sweet Potatoes
Bake the sweet potatoes at 375°F for 30 minutes on one side, and then flip and continue baking for another 30 minutes. This method promotes even cooking and enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Making the Topping
Combine chopped pecans, flour, granulated and dark brown sugars, oatmeal, ground cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Stir well until blended. Adding melted butter helps create a crumbly texture that will brown nicely in the oven.
Preparing the Potato Filling
Once baked, allow the potatoes to cool slightly for easier handling. Scoop out some flesh from each half while leaving enough to maintain their shape. Mixing the scooped flesh with butter, orange zest, and salt adds flavor and creaminess.
Assembling and Baking
Spoon the prepared filling back into the potato halves, then generously top with the pecan mixture. Return them to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden brown, ensuring a deliciously crispy finish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While sweet potatoes are ideal for their natural sweetness and texture, you can experiment with other potatoes. However, the flavor and consistency may differ.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the topping mixture?
Refrigerating the topping mixture helps it firm up, making it easier to spoon onto the potatoes. It also allows the flavors to meld before baking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can bake the sweet potatoes and prepare the topping mixture ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for pecans?
You can replace pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or use seeds like pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider reducing the amount of sugar and butter. You can also use whole wheat flour or oat flour and add more oats for added fiber.
Conclusion
This sweet potato dish combines the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a rich, buttery topping that offers a delightful crunch from the pecans and oatmeal. The hint of orange zest and warm spices elevate the flavors, making it a perfect side dish or dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting and satisfying taste of this recipe that celebrates the goodness of sweet potatoes.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
For a classic twist, top your sweet potatoes with mini marshmallows before baking for a gooey, sweet finish.
Spiced Sweet Potato Waffles
Transform sweet potatoes into a breakfast treat by mixing the mash with waffle batter, adding cinnamon and nutmeg for flavor.
Curried Sweet Potato Soup
Blend the reserved sweet potato flesh with coconut milk, curry powder, and vegetable broth for a creamy, warming soup.
Sweet Potato and Pecan Salad
Toss roasted sweet potato cubes and pecan halves with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and a vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Incorporate sweet potato mash into pancake batter for fluffy, sweet pancakes, and serve with maple syrup.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans
Fill the sweet potato halves with a mixture of black beans, corn, and avocado for a hearty and nutritious meal.
Sweet Potato Brownies
Use sweet potato puree as a healthy substitute in brownie batter for moist and fudgy brownies with a subtle sweetness.
