Purple Sweet Potato Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook

You’ve got a bag of these vibrant, purple sweet potatoes staring back at you, and you’re probably thinking, “What on earth am I going to do with these?” Trust me, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of delicious possibilities. Purple sweet potatoes, with their unique color and subtly sweet flavor, are a versatile ingredient that can add a touch of magic to your cooking. They’re not just pretty to look at – they’re packed with antioxidants and nutrients, making them a healthy and tasty treat.

I’ve been on a bit of a purple sweet potato journey myself, experimenting with different recipes and discovering new ways to use them. From simple roasts to decadent desserts, I'm sharing my favourite recipes and tips to get you started on your own purple sweet potato adventure. Ready? Let's dive in!

Part 1: The Beauty of Purple Sweet Potatoes

Let's start by getting to know these lovely root vegetables. They’re not just your average spud. Purple sweet potatoes, also called "Okinawan sweet potatoes", are a variety of sweet potato that boasts a gorgeous purple skin and vibrant purple flesh. The color comes from a natural pigment called anthocyanin, which is a powerful antioxidant. Honestly, I’m a sucker for a bit of color in my food, and these purple beauties really brighten up any plate.

1.1: A Feast for the Senses

But it’s not just about looks. These spuds have a unique flavour that’s both sweet and earthy. Imagine a hint of maple syrup, a touch of brown sugar, and a subtle, almost nutty flavour. They’re a little bit different from the orange sweet potatoes we’re used to, with a slightly denser texture and a delicate sweetness that’s just irresistible. Just a whiff of the steam when you’re cooking them, and your taste buds are already dancing with anticipation!

1.2: A nutritional powerhouse

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff – the nutritional benefits. Purple sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re a great source of Vitamin A, which is crucial for healthy vision and skin. They’re also rich in Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps boost immunity. And let’s not forget about fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. So, you're not only getting a delicious treat, but you’re also doing your body a favour. Honestly, it’s a win-win situation.

Part 2: Preparing for Your Purple Sweet Potato Adventure

Before we embark on our culinary journey, let’s get the basics covered. The most important thing is to choose the right potatoes. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes with smooth skin. Avoid any potatoes that are soft, wrinkled, or have cuts or bruises. You want potatoes that are bursting with flavour and freshness.

2.1: Getting Your Potatoes Ready

Once you've got your chosen potatoes, it's time to prepare them. Give them a good scrub with a brush to remove any dirt or debris. You can peel them if you like, but I personally prefer to leave the skin on, as it adds extra flavour and texture. Just make sure you wash them thoroughly! After washing, you can cut them into the desired size, depending on the recipe you’re making.

2.2: Storage Solutions

Now, let’s talk storage. If you’re not using your purple sweet potatoes right away, keep them in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or a cupboard. They can last for a couple of weeks, just make sure they’re kept away from direct sunlight or heat. And remember, just like any other vegetable, they’ll be tastiest when they’re fresh. So, try to use them within a couple of weeks for the best flavour and texture.

Part 3: Purple Sweet Potato Delights: Simple and Savoury Recipes

Okay, now we’re getting to the good stuff! I’ve compiled some of my favourite simple and savoury recipes that are perfect for showcasing the natural sweetness and earthiness of purple sweet potatoes. These recipes are easy to make, even for a beginner, and they’re packed with flavour.

3.1: Roasted Purple Sweet Potatoes

Let’s start with a classic: roasted purple sweet potatoes. It's a simple, yet delicious recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2. Olive oil
3. Salt and pepper
4. Fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley)

Just toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, spread them out on a baking sheet, and roast them in a preheated oven until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, or you can enjoy it on its own. You can also add other spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a little extra flavour.

3.2: Purple Sweet potato soup

Next, let's try a comforting and flavourful purple sweet potato soup. This soup is creamy, sweet, and earthy, and it’s perfect for a chilly evening. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2. Onion, chopped
3. Garlic, minced
4. vegetable broth
5. Coconut milk
6. Salt and pepper
7. Fresh cilantro or parsley

Simply sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, then add the sweet potatoes and vegetable broth. Simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender, then blend until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and top with fresh cilantro or parsley. This soup is so satisfying and it’s a great way to warm up on a cold day. Try adding some ginger or cinnamon for a twist of flavour.

3.3: Purple sweet potato salad

For a refreshing and light meal, try a purple sweet potato salad. This salad is a vibrant and flavourful twist on the classic potato salad. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, cooked and cubed
2. Red onion, thinly sliced
3. Fresh cilantro, chopped
4. Lime juice
5. Olive oil
6. Salt and pepper

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and toss to coat. The lime juice adds a bright acidity that perfectly balances the sweetness of the potatoes. You can also add other ingredients, like toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese, or avocado for extra flavour and texture.

Part 4: Purple Sweet Potato: A Colourful Journey into the World of Desserts

Okay, now let’s get into the fun stuff – desserts! Purple sweet potatoes are a natural fit for delicious and decadent desserts. They bring a unique sweetness and a vibrant colour to any sweet treat. Get ready to indulge in some purple magic!

4.1: Purple sweet potato pie

We’ll start with a classic: purple sweet potato pie. This pie is a rich, creamy, and flavourful twist on the traditional sweet potato pie. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
2. Eggs
3. Condensed milk
4. Butter
5. Cinnamon
6. Nutmeg
7. Pie crust

Combine the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, condensed milk, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl and mix until smooth. Pour the mixture into a pie crust and bake until the filling is set and slightly browned. This pie is a real crowd-pleaser, and it's sure to impress your guests. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra indulgence.

4.2: Purple Sweet Potato Brownies

Let’s move on to a treat that’s sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings: purple sweet potato brownies. These brownies are rich, fudgy, and surprisingly healthy. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
2. Unsweetened cocoa powder
3. Flour
4. Sugar
5. Eggs
6. Butter
7. Vanilla extract
8. Salt

Combine the mashed sweet potatoes, cocoa powder, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl and mix until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake until the brownies are set and slightly cracked on top. These brownies have a rich chocolate flavour with a subtle sweetness that’s just delightful. You can also add some chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra indulgence.

4.3: Purple sweet potato smoothies

Looking for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack? Try a purple sweet potato smoothie. These smoothies are packed with nutrients and they’re a delicious way to start your day. Here’s what you need:

1. Purple sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
2. Milk (almond, soy, or dairy)
3. Greek yogurt
4. Frozen fruit (like bananas or berries)
5. Spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger)

Simply combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. The sweetness of the purple sweet potato blends beautifully with the fruit and yogurt, creating a delicious and satisfying smoothie. You can also add some protein powder or chia seeds for extra nutrition.

Part 5: Purple Sweet Potato: A Global culinary adventure

Purple sweet potatoes are a truly global ingredient, and they’re featured in cuisines all over the world. Let’s take a culinary adventure and explore some of the ways these vibrant root vegetables are used in different cultures.

5.1: Japanese Inspiration: The Sweet Potato’s Humble Beginnings

Purple sweet potatoes, often called “Okinawan sweet potatoes” in Japan, have a long and rich history in Japanese cuisine. They’re thought to have originated in Okinawa, a group of islands in southern Japan. In Japan, purple sweet potatoes are used in a wide variety of dishes, from traditional sweets to modern desserts. They’re often steamed, boiled, or roasted and served as a side dish. They’re also used to make mochi, a traditional japanese rice cake, and sweet potato paste, which is used as a filling for pastries and desserts. The Japanese use of purple sweet potatoes is a testament to their versatility and the deep connection they have with this unique ingredient.

5.2: A Twist on the Traditional: Peruvian Flavours

Purple sweet potatoes are also popular in Peruvian cuisine. In Peru, they're known as “oca” and are often used in soups, stews, and salads. One of the most popular Peruvian dishes featuring purple sweet potatoes is “oca en olla”, a hearty stew that’s made with oca, beef, and other vegetables. The vibrant purple oca adds a unique sweetness and texture to the stew, showcasing the diverse culinary uses of this versatile root vegetable.

5.3: Beyond the Borders: Purple Sweet Potato’s Global Reach

Beyond Japan and Peru, purple sweet potatoes are becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world. They’re now found in supermarkets and farmers markets in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. Their versatility and unique flavour have made them a popular ingredient for chefs and home cooks alike. It’s wonderful to see how these vibrant potatoes are being embraced by different cultures and incorporated into new and exciting dishes, further expanding their culinary reach and popularity.

Part 6: Creative Cooking: Purple Sweet Potatoes in Action

Okay, now let’s have some fun and explore some creative ways to use purple sweet potatoes. We’ve covered the basics, but the possibilities are endless. Let’s get our culinary creativity flowing!

6.1: Purple Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Why not try making gnocchi with purple sweet potatoes? It’s a delicious and fun twist on the traditional Italian recipe. Simply replace the traditional potatoes with purple sweet potatoes, and you’ll have a vibrant and flavourful dish that’s sure to impress your guests. You can serve it with a classic tomato sauce, a creamy pesto sauce, or even a simple butter and sage sauce. The purple hue of the gnocchi will add a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

6.2: Purple Sweet Potato Burgers

For a veggie burger with a touch of sweetness, try making purple sweet potato burgers. They’re a healthy and delicious alternative to beef burgers. Simply mash cooked purple sweet potatoes with breadcrumbs, oats, and spices, then shape them into patties and pan-fry them until golden brown. You can top them with your favourite burger fixings, like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and a creamy sauce. These burgers are a perfect option for a light and satisfying meal.

6.3: Purple sweet potato pancakes

Start your day with a vibrant and flavourful breakfast: purple sweet potato pancakes. They’re a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pancakes. Simply mash cooked purple sweet potatoes with flour, eggs, milk, and spices, then pour the batter onto a hot griddle and cook until golden brown. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. These pancakes are a perfect way to add a touch of sweetness and colour to your morning routine.

Part 7: From the Kitchen to the Table: Presentation Tips

Now that you’ve learned some delicious recipes, let’s talk about presentation. After all, food is meant to be enjoyed with all your senses! Here are a few tips to make your purple sweet potato dishes look as good as they taste.

7.1: Play with Colour

Purple sweet potatoes are naturally vibrant, so use their colour to your advantage. Pair them with other colourful ingredients, like greens, reds, and yellows, to create a visually appealing plate. Think of a beautiful salad with purple sweet potato cubes, green lettuce, red tomatoes, and yellow bell peppers. It’s a feast for the eyes, as well as the taste buds. A dash of colour can truly elevate your dishes.

7.2: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative

Don’t be afraid to experiment with presentation. You can use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, like stars or hearts. You can also use a piping bag to create swirls or decorative lines. Just have fun and let your creativity flow! Presentation can be a fun way to express your personal style and add a touch of whimsy to your cooking.

7.3: Serve It Up with Style

Choose the right tableware to enhance your purple sweet potato dishes. White or beige plates will allow the vibrant colours to shine. You can also add some colour to your table setting with napkins or placemats. Just make sure the colours complement the colours of your dishes. The right tableware can really make your dishes pop and create a beautiful and cohesive dining experience.

Part 8: FAQs: Purple Sweet Potatoes Unveiled

Let’s wrap things up with some frequently asked questions about these amazing root vegetables. Here’s your chance to gain some insider knowledge about purple sweet potatoes.

8.1: Are Purple Sweet Potatoes Different from Regular Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, they’re different varieties. They both belong to the same species, but they have different characteristics. Purple sweet potatoes have a vibrant purple flesh and a slightly denser texture than orange sweet potatoes. They also have a more subtle sweetness and an earthy flavour. It’s like comparing apples and oranges - they’re both delicious, but they have their own distinct characteristics. Knowing the subtle differences between the two varieties can help you choose the right one for your recipe.

8.2: How Do I Know if a Purple Sweet Potato is Ripe?

Choose potatoes that are firm and unblemished. They should feel heavy for their size, and the skin should be smooth and free of wrinkles. Avoid any potatoes that are soft, wrinkled, or have cuts or bruises. If you’re not sure, give it a gentle squeeze. It should feel firm and springy. A good, ripe purple sweet potato is the foundation for delicious dishes.

8.3: Can I Substitute Purple Sweet Potatoes for Regular Sweet Potatoes in a Recipe?

You can, but keep in mind that they have a slightly different flavour and texture. The sweetness of purple sweet potatoes is more subtle and they have a slightly denser texture. So, you might need to adjust the amount of sweetener or spices in your recipe. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. You can also add more moisture to your recipe if you find the purple sweet potatoes are a little too dry. It’s always best to experiment and make adjustments based on your preferences.

8.4: How Long Do Purple Sweet Potatoes Last?

Stored properly, they can last for several weeks. Keep them in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or a cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause them to spoil more quickly. If you notice any soft spots or mold, discard the potatoes. Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy your purple sweet potatoes for a longer time.

8.5: What are Some Other Fun and Creative Ways to Use Purple Sweet Potatoes?

Let your imagination run wild! You can use them in smoothies, juices, muffins, pies, and even cakes. You can also roast them with spices and serve them as a side dish, or add them to salads for a vibrant and flavourful twist. The possibilities are endless! Have fun experimenting and discovering new ways to enjoy these delightful root vegetables. The culinary world is your oyster!

That’s it, folks! We’ve covered everything from basic preparation to global inspiration. So, go forth and unleash your culinary creativity with these vibrant and delicious purple sweet potatoes. Happy cooking!