Maple-Balsamic Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Onions
Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of autumn with this delightful recipe for Maple-Balsamic Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Onions. Perfectly roasted sweet potatoes are elevated with a luxurious glaze of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, bringing a hint of sweetness and tang that beautifully complements their natural flavor. Sautéed onions add depth and sumptuousness, creating a dish that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Whether served as a side for holiday feasts or a comforting lunch, these sweet potatoes will make you forget you're eating something healthy. This dish is a celebration of seasonal flavors, making it an essential addition to your autumn and winter dining repertoire.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweet potatoes
4 (medium to large, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
maple syrup
7-8 (tablespoons, divided)
extra virgin olive oil
8 (tablespoons, divided)
kosher salt
2 ½ (teaspoons, divided)
fresh ground black pepper
1 ½ (teaspoons, plus more for seasoning)
onions
3 (large, peeled, cut in half and very thinly sliced)
balsamic vinegar
4 (tablespoons)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with 4 tablespoons of maple syrup, 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2½ teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1½ teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper. Toss until all the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
3
In a large skillet, heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until they become caramelized. Keep the heat low to prevent burning.
4
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the remaining 3-4 tablespoons of maple syrup and the balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste and continue sautéing for another 5-10 minutes until the onions achieve a dark golden brown color. If the pan becomes dry, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to prevent burning.
5
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through for even browning.
6
After the initial roasting, remove the sheet tray from the oven, and dot the caramelized onion mixture over the roasted sweet potatoes. Carefully toss the sweet potatoes with the onions using a spatula to ensure an even distribution.
7
Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 5-8 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly browned. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8
Transfer the caramelized sweet potatoes and onions to a serving platter. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, seasonal dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary flavors in Maple-Balsamic Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Onions?
This dish features a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor profile, combining the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and maple syrup with the acidity of balsamic vinegar and the savory depth of caramelized onions.
What oven temperature is required for roasting the sweet potatoes?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C) for roasting the sweet potatoes.
How should the sweet potatoes be prepared?
The recipe calls for 4 medium to large sweet potatoes to be peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
Initially, the onions should be sautéed over low heat for about 20 minutes, followed by an additional 5-10 minutes after adding the glaze.
What is the secret to preventing the onions from burning?
Keep the heat low and, if the pan becomes too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time to prevent burning.
When should the balsamic vinegar be added to the recipe?
The balsamic vinegar is added to the skillet once the onions have completed their initial 20 minutes of caramelization.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free.
How many onions are needed for this dish?
The recipe requires 3 large onions, which should be peeled, halved, and very thinly sliced.
What type of salt and pepper is recommended?
The recipe recommends using kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
How much maple syrup is used in total?
The recipe uses between 7 and 8 tablespoons of maple syrup, divided between the sweet potato seasoning and the onion glaze.
Should the baking sheet be lined?
Yes, it is recommended to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for even roasting and easier cleanup.
How do you ensure the sweet potatoes brown evenly?
You should flip the sweet potatoes halfway through their initial 25-30 minute roasting period.
When are the caramelized onions combined with the potatoes?
The onions are dotted over and tossed with the potatoes after the potatoes have roasted for 25-30 minutes.
How much olive oil is required for the entire recipe?
The recipe uses 8 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in total, divided between the roasting process and sautéing the onions.
What is the final roasting time once the onions are added?
After combining the onions and potatoes, they should be roasted for an additional 5-8 minutes.
Can this be served as a main dish?
While often served as a side for holiday feasts, it is also described as a comforting and healthy lunch option.
What color should the onions reach for the best flavor?
The onions should achieve a dark golden brown color to ensure they are fully caramelized and flavorful.
What is the recommended size for the sweet potato cubes?
The sweet potatoes should be cut into approximately 1-inch cubes.
Does this recipe contain any animal products?
No, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients like olive oil, maple syrup, and vegetables, making it vegan-friendly.
What seasons is this dish specifically curated for?
This dish is specifically highlighted as a celebration of seasonal flavors for autumn and winter.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: sweet potatoes, maple syrup, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, onions, and balsamic vinegar.
How do you know when the sweet potatoes are fully cooked?
The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and slightly browned on the edges.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Yes, the instructions specify using peeled and cubed sweet potatoes.
What type of vinegar is used for the glaze?
The recipe uses 4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar to create the caramelized glaze.
Should the onions be sautéed on high heat?
No, the onions should be sautéed on low heat to allow them to caramelize slowly without burning.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper at the end?
Yes, the instructions suggest tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed before serving.
How should the dish be served?
It is best served warm on a serving platter immediately after the final roasting step.
How much salt is used for the sweet potatoes initially?
The potatoes are initially tossed with 2.5 teaspoons of kosher salt.
How should the onions be cut?
The onions should be peeled, cut in half, and then very thinly sliced.
What is the purpose of adding maple syrup to the onions?
The maple syrup helps the onions achieve a rich, dark golden brown color and adds a sweet layer to the glaze.