My journey with Hasselback sweet potatoes began quite serendipitously. One chilly autumn evening, I was searching for a way to make our family dinner more exciting. Sweet potatoes were on the menu, but I wanted to try something different. As I scrolled through recipes, I stumbled upon the Hasselback technique, traditionally used for potatoes. Intrigued by the potential, I adapted the method for sweet potatoes and added a luscious maple pecan topping. The result was a dish that not only tasted delicious but looked like a work of art.
This recipe combines the crisp, caramelized exterior of Hasselback potatoes with a sweet, buttery glaze that makes each slice a burst of autumnal flavor. Perfect for a festive holiday meal or a cozy family dinner, these sweet potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). This initial temperature will help the sweet potatoes cook through and develop a beautiful texture.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Stabilize the Sweet Potatoes: Place a sweet potato between two chopsticks. The chopsticks will act as a guide to help prevent the knife from slicing all the way through the potato, creating the signature Hasselback slices.
Slice the Sweet Potatoes: Using a sharp knife, make 1/4-inch slices along the length of the sweet potato, stopping just short of cutting all the way through. The chopsticks will stop you from cutting through entirely. Repeat this process with the second sweet potato.
Brush with Oil: Brush the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. This helps them crisp up nicely during baking.
Season: Season the sweet potatoes with salt and black pepper to taste. This will enhance their natural flavor and create a savory base for the sweet topping.
3. Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Initial Bake: Place the prepared sweet potatoes in a small baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft and tender. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center; it should go through easily.
Increase Oven Temperature: Once the sweet potatoes are soft, remove them from the oven and increase the temperature to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius). This higher temperature will help caramelize the topping and create a deliciously crisp finish.
4. Prepare the Maple Pecan Topping
Mix the Topping: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. The mixture should be thick and slightly chunky.
5. Add the Topping
Spoon the Mixture: Spoon the maple pecan mixture over and in between the slices of the baked sweet potatoes. Make sure to push some of the pecans into the slices to ensure they get nicely caramelized.
Return to Oven: Place the sweet potatoes back in the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. This will allow the topping to melt, bubble, and turn golden brown, creating a sweet and savory glaze over the potatoes.
6. Finish and Serve
Cool Slightly: Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Spoon Any Liquid: If there’s any remaining cooking liquid in the dish, spoon it over the sweet potatoes to enhance the flavor.
Serve: Arrange the sweet potatoes on a serving platter. They make a stunning side dish for any meal and are sure to be the centerpiece of your table.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut Options: If you’re not a fan of pecans or have allergies, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Vegan Version: For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use maple syrup without any animal products.
Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. You can add a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor or a touch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Cheese Lovers: For an extra layer of indulgence, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyere, on top of the sweet potatoes during the last few minutes of baking.
Conclusion
Hasselback sweet potatoes with a maple pecan topping transform a simple side dish into a culinary delight. This recipe not only brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes but also adds layers of rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch. The combination of caramelized edges, spiced pecans, and a touch of maple syrup makes each bite an unforgettable experience.
Perfect for autumnal meals, festive gatherings, or just a comforting family dinner, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. It’s a testament to how a simple twist on a classic ingredient can create something extraordinary. So give this recipe a try and experience how a few clever tweaks can elevate your sweet potatoes to new heights of flavor and enjoyment. Whether you’re a long-time fan of sweet potatoes or new to the Hasselback trend, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family!
