How to Grill Sweet Potatoes Whole

Grilling whole sweet potatoes is a simple yet rewarding way to enhance their natural sweetness while infusing them with a smoky, caramelized flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a delicious and healthy side dish, grilled sweet potatoes are a fantastic choice. Unlike boiling or baking, grilling helps retain their natural sugars while adding a crisp, slightly charred skin that enhances their overall taste. This guide will walk you through the process of grilling whole sweet potatoes to perfection, including preparation, grilling techniques, and serving ideas.

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

Not all sweet potatoes are created equal when it comes to grilling. The key to achieving perfectly cooked sweet potatoes starts with selecting the right ones.

• Size Matters: Medium-sized sweet potatoes (about 5-7 inches long and 2-3 inches in diameter) are ideal. They cook more evenly and don’t take as long as larger ones.
• Firmness: Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any that have soft spots, cracks, or signs of sprouting, as these may indicate they are past their prime.
• Variety: Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, such as Beauregard and Jewel, are the best choices for grilling because of their natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.

Prepping Sweet Potatoes for Grilling

Proper preparation ensures that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop a delicious, crispy skin. Follow these steps before placing them on the grill:

1. Wash and Scrub: Since you’ll be grilling them whole with the skin on, thoroughly wash and scrub each sweet potato under running water to remove dirt and debris.
2. Dry Thoroughly: After washing, pat them dry with a towel. Moisture can prevent the skin from crisping up properly.
3. Optional Coating: Lightly rub the skin with olive oil to help retain moisture and encourage even charring. You can also season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Grilling Methods

When it comes to grilling whole sweet potatoes, you have a few different methods to choose from:

Direct Heat vs. Indirect Heat Cooking

• Direct Heat: Cooking directly over the flames will give the sweet potatoes a smoky charred exterior. However, this method requires careful monitoring to avoid burning.
• Indirect Heat: Placing the sweet potatoes on a cooler section of the grill allows them to cook more evenly without the risk of burning. This method is ideal for larger potatoes that take longer to cook.

Wrapped in Foil vs. Unwrapped

• Wrapped in Foil: Wrapping sweet potatoes in foil helps lock in moisture, making them softer and preventing the skin from becoming overly charred. This method is great for those who prefer a moist, tender texture.
• Unwrapped: Leaving sweet potatoes unwrapped results in a crispier skin with a slight smokiness. If you enjoy a bit of a crunch, this method is the way to go.

Grilling Steps

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled whole sweet potatoes:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium heat (375-400°F). If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn gray before placing the sweet potatoes on the grate. For a gas grill, preheat for about 10-15 minutes with the lid closed.

Step 2: Place Sweet Potatoes on the Grill

• If using foil: Wrap each sweet potato in aluminum foil and place them on the grill.
• If grilling unwrapped: Place sweet potatoes directly on the grill grates.

Step 3: Cook and Turn Occasionally

• Grill for 45-60 minutes, turning every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Use a pair of tongs to check for charring and rotate as needed.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

• Insert a fork or skewer into the thickest part of the potato. If it slides in easily without resistance, they are fully cooked.
• The skin should be slightly crispy, and the insides should feel soft and creamy.

Flavor Enhancements & Toppings

Once your sweet potatoes are perfectly grilled, you can enhance their flavor with various toppings:

Before Grilling:

• Savory: Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, or smoked paprika.
• Sweet: Rub with a bit of cinnamon and brown sugar for a caramelized crust.

After Grilling:

• Classic Butter & Cinnamon: A simple combination of butter, cinnamon, and honey enhances the natural sweetness.
• Savory Twist: Top with sour cream, chives, crumbled feta, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Maple & Pecans: Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with toasted pecans for a fall-inspired treat.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled sweet potatoes can be served in various ways, making them a versatile addition to any meal:

• As a Side Dish: Pair them with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
• Loaded Sweet Potatoes: Slice open and stuff with black beans, cheese, avocado, and salsa for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Salads & Bowls: Cube and toss them into salads or grain bowls for a nutritious boost.
• Breakfast Option: Mash and mix with cinnamon and nuts for a hearty breakfast base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best results, avoid these common mistakes:

• Skipping the Preheat: A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Using Too High Heat: High temperatures can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
• Not Turning Enough: Forgetting to rotate the sweet potatoes can lead to uneven cooking.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Test for doneness with a fork to avoid hard or mushy sweet potatoes.

Conclusion

Grilling whole sweet potatoes is an easy, nutritious, and flavorful way to enjoy this naturally sweet and versatile vegetable. Whether you prefer them wrapped in foil for a tender texture or unwrapped for a crispy, smoky skin, the process is simple and rewarding. With endless topping and serving options, grilled sweet potatoes can complement any meal. So, fire up the grill and enjoy this delicious, wholesome dish at your next cookout!