These tasty maple chili sweet potato wedges are the perfect mix of sweet and spicy! Roasted to crispy perfection, they make a great side or snack.
Whenever I make these, the whole house smells amazing. Plus, who can resist that crunchy outside and soft inside? You’ll want to eat them all in one sitting! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes are best! You can also use regular potatoes if you prefer a different texture, but sweet potatoes give a wonderful natural sweetness.
Olive Oil: This oil is my go-to for roasting, but you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil instead. Just avoid using oils with a strong flavor, as they could overshadow the other ingredients.
Pure Maple Syrup: This adds sweetness and a hint of flavor. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can try agave syrup or honey for a similar effect. Just remember that honey isn’t vegan!
Chili Powder: This adds a lovely heat. You can swap it for cayenne pepper if you want extra spice. Or use paprika if you prefer something milder.
Smoked Paprika: It’s optional, but I think it really enhances the dish. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use regular paprika for a lighter flavor.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth but is optional. Fresh minced garlic is another tasty choice—just adjust the amount to your liking!
How Do I Cut Sweet Potatoes for Wedges?
Cutting sweet potatoes into wedges can be tricky for some. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start with washed, unpeeled sweet potatoes for extra texture. Place them on a cutting board.
- Slice the potato in half lengthwise, which helps keep them stable for cutting.
- Cut each half into 3-4 wedges. Try to keep them even in size so they cook uniformly.
- For thicker wedges, keep the skin on! It adds extra fiber and flavor.
Remember to use a sharp knife and take your time to avoid slipping. Safety first!
Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of roasting time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for getting those wedges crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Thoroughly wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. You can leave the skins on for extra flavor and texture, which is a wonderful addition!
3. Cut Into Wedges:
Carefully slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into 3-4 wedges, depending on how thick you prefer them. Try to keep the pieces roughly the same size for even cooking!
4. Make the Flavor Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until everything is well combined.
5. Toss the Wedges:
Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and gently toss them in the maple chili mixture until they are evenly coated. Make sure every wedge gets that sweet and spicy goodness!
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated wedges in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Space them out a little to help them crisp up nicely as they roast.
7. Roast to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the wedges for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. They should come out tender on the inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After roasting, remove the sweet potato wedges from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm as a delicious sweet and spicy side dish or snack. Enjoy every crispy, tender bite!
These Maple Chili Sweet Potato Wedges are sure to become a favorite! Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and smoky chili with each bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with regular potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Wedges?
Store any leftover sweet potato wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat them, warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some of that crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before roasting for an extra kick!
Is There a Vegan Option for Maple Syrup?
Good news—pure maple syrup is already vegan! If you want alternatives, feel free to use agave syrup or date syrup as a sweetener. Just keep in mind the flavor might vary slightly.
