Honey-glazed roasted sweet potatoes

Did you know that 22 February is Cook a Sweet Potato day?

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, containing high levels of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.

The orange-fleshed varieties are particularly rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which help combat free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

The fibre in sweet potatoes promotes healthy digestion by preventing constipation and supporting a balanced gut microbiome, while their lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes means sweet potatoes can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a good choice for individuals with diabetes.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create Honey-glazed roasted sweet potatoes – a dish that combines the earthy goodness of sweet potatoes with a sweet and sticky glaze.

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes or slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup citrus honey
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into cubes or slices. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Place the sweet potato cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over them and season with salt and pepper. Toss the sweet potatoes to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning.
4. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they have some space between them for proper roasting.
5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned. Be sure to give them a gentle stir or shake the pan halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
6. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the honey glaze. In a small bowl, combine honey, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until well blended.
7. Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the honey glaze evenly over the hot roasted sweet potatoes. Gently toss to coat them in the sticky, sweet goodness of the glaze.
8. Transfer the honey-glazed roasted sweet potatoes to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh to add a pop of colour and freshness.