What's the best way to boil sweet potatoes?

Question

Discover boiling tips for sweet potatoes that keep flavor and texture intact.

Answer 1

The best way to boil sweet potatoes is to peel and cube them, then boil them in water until fork-tender, usually 10-15 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.

Detailed Explanation:

Boiling sweet potatoes is a simple process, but following these steps will ensure they are cooked perfectly every time:

1. Preparation: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can either peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. Peeling them will result in a smoother texture.
2. Cutting: Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, about 1-2 inches in size. This ensures even cooking. Smaller cubes will cook faster.
3. Boiling: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water; this helps to enhance the flavor of the sweet potatoes.
4. Cooking Time: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the sweet potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes.
5. Testing for Doneness: To check if the sweet potatoes are done, insert a fork into a cube. If the fork slides in easily, they are ready.
6. Draining: Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes in a colander.

Pro Tip:

Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes, as they can become mushy. Start checking for doneness around 10 minutes and test frequently.