Get ready to indulge in a sweet and spicy delight with Grandma's Red Hot Southern Sweet Potatoes. This mouthwatering dish will add a fiery kick to your dinner table. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes combines perfectly with the heat of red hot sauce, creating a unique and delicious flavor combination. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this classic Southern recipe in no time. Impress your family and friends with this flavorful side dish that will leave them wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup red hot sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup marshmallows (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Using a fork, prick each sweet potato several times to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents them from bursting.
- Place the sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes.
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the red hot sauce mixture. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, stir in the red hot sauce.
- Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Carefully slice each sweet potato lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a baking dish and drizzle the red hot sauce mixture over them, making sure to get it between the slices.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the potatoes for added crunch and flavor. You can also top them with marshmallows for a gooey, sweet twist.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the toppings are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber.
Red hot sauce, made from chili peppers, can boost your metabolism and add a spicy kick to your meals.
This dish is a staple in Southern cuisine and is often enjoyed during holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The combination of sweet and spicy flavors in this dish is a perfect balance and will satisfy your taste buds.