Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes

This Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes recipe combines the rich, earthy flavor of sweet potatoes with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners, this baked sweet potato dish is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. The crispy edges and tender center of these roasted sweet potatoes paired with a rich maple pecan sauce will elevate any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Lay them flat on a cutting board and place chopsticks along each side to prevent cutting all the way through. Using a sharp knife, make thin, evenly spaced cuts along the length of each sweet potato.
2. Season and Oil:
   Rub the sweet potatoes with vegetable oil and season them with salt and black pepper.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
   Place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish and transfer them to the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Prepare the Maple Pecan Sauce:
   While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a bowl. Stir in the chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
5. Finish Baking:
   Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove them from the oven. Pour the maple pecan sauce over the top, making sure it seeps into the cuts of the potatoes. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and the potatoes to crisp up slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously sweet and savory side dish.

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Tips:

• Uniform Slicing: Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly for even cooking. You can use a mandolin slicer if you’re concerned about making uniform cuts.
• Bake in Foil: To ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly and retain moisture, you can wrap them in foil before baking. Just be sure to remove the foil before pouring the sauce for that crispy texture.
• Check for Doneness: Test the tenderness of the potatoes by gently inserting a fork. If it easily slides through, they’re done.

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Variations and Substitutions:

• Nuts: You can replace the pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a different texture and flavor.
• Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer a less sweet option, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Oil Substitute: You can replace vegetable oil with olive oil for a more robust flavor or melted coconut oil for a tropical touch.

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FAQs:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven before adding the sauce and finishing the bake.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the flavor will differ as sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet taste that complements the maple and pecans.

What if I don’t have chopsticks to guide the cuts?
If you don’t have chopsticks, you can use wooden spoons or any sturdy object with a similar length to help guide your cuts, preventing them from going all the way through the potatoes.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes as a side dish for holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Pair them with roasted meats like turkey, pork, or chicken for a complete and satisfying dinner.
• These sweet potatoes are also a great option for a vegetarian main course when served with a side of leafy greens or a quinoa salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Hasselback Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes recipe is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and crunchy. The tender sweet potatoes, crispy edges, and maple-pecan sauce make this dish a standout, whether for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner. With its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor, this dish will become a favorite in your meal rotation, adding warmth and joy to every bite!