Bhutanese Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Bajan Candied Sweet Potatoes to Bhutanese cuisine, we incorporate traditional Bhutanese spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to infuse the dish with the flavors of Bhutan. The original dish's candied aspect is replaced with a spiced coating, adding a savory element to the sweet potatoes. We alse have the original recipe for Bajan Candied Sweet Potatoes, so you can check it out.

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (900g) 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (900g)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sweet potato cubes. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to form a paste.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked sweet potato cubes to the bowl and gently toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. 5.
   Transfer the spiced sweet potatoes to a baking dish and spread them out in a single layer.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are golden and slightly crispy on the edges.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of Bhutanese red chili flakes to the spice mixture.
• Serve the spiced sweet potatoes with a dollop of Bhutanese yogurt on top for a creamy contrast.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can boil the sweet potatoes for a few more minutes before baking them.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhutanese Spiced Sweet Potatoes as a side dish alongside a main course, such as Bhutanese red rice and a vegetable curry. They also make a delicious addition to a vegetarian or vegan Buddha bowl.

Presentation advice

Arrange the spiced sweet potatoes on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. The vibrant orange hue of the sweet potatoes will make for an eye-catching presentation.