Savory Skillet Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions
This delightful Savory Skillet Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions recipe transforms simple sweet potatoes into a gourmet dish with warm spices and the natural sweetness of caramelized onions. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Sautéing the onions until golden brown before adding tender sweet potatoes takes this dish to the next level. Serve it at family dinners or casual gatherings, and watch it disappear in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 (teaspoons)
onion
1 (cup, thinly sliced)
sweet potatoes
2 (medium, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch x 1/2-inch thick strips (about 1 lb))
vegetable stock
1/2 (cup)
salt
to taste (as needed)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (as needed)
Instructions
1
In a nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and golden brown.
3
Carefully add the prepared sweet potato strips to the skillet, followed by the vegetable stock. Stir gently to combine.
4
Cover the skillet tightly with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and allow the mixture to simmer. Stir every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking, for a total of about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
5
Season the dish with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste, tossing everything together before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Skillet Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions?
It is a gourmet side dish or vegetarian main course that combines sautéed sweet potatoes with the natural sweetness of caramelized onions and warm spices.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable stock and plant-based ingredients.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
The onions should be cooked over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
How should I cut the sweet potatoes?
The sweet potatoes should be peeled and cut into strips that are approximately 1/2-inch by 1/2-inch thick.
What liquid is used to simmer the potatoes?
One-half cup of vegetable stock is used to simmer the sweet potatoes.
Do I need to cover the skillet while cooking?
Yes, you should cover the skillet tightly with a lid while the sweet potatoes simmer to ensure they cook through properly.
What is the total simmering time for the sweet potatoes?
The sweet potatoes should simmer for a total of about 15-20 minutes.
How often should I stir the mixture during simmering?
You should stir the mixture every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are finished cooking?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork can easily pierce them.
What seasonings are used in this dish?
The dish is seasoned with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, while it is an excellent side dish, it is hearty enough to serve as a vegetarian main course.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 main ingredients: olive oil, onion, sweet potatoes, vegetable stock, salt, and pepper.
What weight of sweet potatoes is needed?
The recipe requires approximately 1 pound of sweet potatoes, which is usually 2 medium-sized potatoes.
Should I use high heat for this recipe?
No, start with medium heat for the onions and reduce to low heat once you begin simmering the potatoes.
Is a nonstick skillet necessary?
While a nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent sticking, you can use other skillets if you monitor the heat carefully.
Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, you can substitute chicken stock if you are not following a vegetarian diet.
What is the texture of the finished onions?
The onions should be soft, translucent, and golden brown due to the caramelization process.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is considered a healthy side dish as it features nutrient-dense sweet potatoes and minimal added fats.
Can I add garlic to this dish?
Yes, garlic would make a flavorful addition; add it during the last minute of cooking the onions so it doesn't burn.
How do I prepare the onions?
The onions should be thinly sliced before being added to the hot oil.
What does 'shimmering' oil mean?
Oil is shimmering when it is hot enough to move fluidly like water but has not yet begun to smoke.
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best texture, but frozen could be used if thawed and dried properly.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, these sweet potatoes reheat well and can be made in advance for weekly meals.
Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
Yes, red onions can be used, though yellow or white onions are more traditional for sweet caramelization.
What can I do if the liquid evaporates before the potatoes are soft?
If the stock evaporates too quickly, you can add a tablespoon or two of extra stock or water and keep the lid tight.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, always check your vegetable stock label to confirm it is certified gluten-free.
Can I use a cast iron skillet?
Yes, a cast iron skillet works very well for caramelizing onions and provides excellent heat retention for simmering.
How should I serve the finished dish?
Toss everything together one last time to distribute the seasonings and serve warm immediately.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Fresh rosemary or thyme would complement the sweet potatoes and onions perfectly if added during the simmering stage.