18 Flavorful Sweet Potato Recipes Indian Inspired
The humble sweet potato is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and India is no exception. With its natural sweetness and versatility, it’s no wonder that sweet potatoes are a favorite in Indian cooking. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 delicious and creative sweet potato recipes that blend traditional Indian flavors with modern twists. From spicy curries to comforting stews, and from crispy fritters to rich desserts, these recipes showcase the amazing possibilities of the sweet potato.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So, let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of Indian-inspired sweet potato cooking!
Spicy Sweet Potato Curry
This vibrant curry recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a spicy kick from red chili peppers and Indian spices, perfect for a cozy meal or as a side dish to spice up your dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 red chili pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add sweet potatoes, chili pepper, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add diced tomatoes and salt; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Masala Fry
Sweet Potato Masala Fry: A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a blend of spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and garam masala powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the sweet potato cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Tikki Chaat
This unique fusion of Indian street food and sweet potato makes for a deliciously crispy and flavorful snack. Sweet Potato Tikki Chaat is perfect for a quick evening treat or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Chaat masala, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix together mashed sweet potatoes, gram flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, amchur powder, and salt.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the patties until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain the tikkis on paper towels and serve hot with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of chaat masala, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Sweet Potato and Spinach Sabzi
Sweet Potato and Spinach Sabzi: A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired side dish that combines roasted sweet potatoes with wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1/2 tablespoon ghee or oil and spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large pan, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon ghee or oil over medium heat.
5. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. Stir in the cumin, salt to taste, and wilted spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach is fully incorporated.
8. Serve the roasted sweet potatoes with the wilted spinach mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Coconut Curry
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 14 oz can coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add sweet potatoes and stir to coat with spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Peas Stir Fry
This vibrant and flavorful stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tender crunch of fresh peas, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the peas, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are tender but still crisp.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Halwa
Sweet Potato Halwa is a popular Indian dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses roasted sweet potatoes to create a creamy, sweet, and aromatic pudding-like treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast them in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until they’re soft when pierced.
2. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Peel the sweet potatoes and mash them in a large bowl using a potato masher or a fork.
4. Add the milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and ghee to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 10-12 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Sweet Potato and Lentil Stew
A comforting and nutritious stew that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot with your choice of crusty bread, rice, or over a bed of greens.
Sweet Potato Samosa
A twist on the classic Indian snack, these sweet potato samosas are a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package of samosa wrappers (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1/4 cup of ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: Chopped cilantro and yogurt for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, and salt.
3. Place a samosa wrapper on a flat surface. Brush edges with ghee or oil.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of sweet potato mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a triangle.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Place samosas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired curry. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a healthy packed lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Bharta
Sweet Potato Bharta is a popular Indian dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. This recipe uses roasted sweet potatoes to create a creamy, slightly spicy mash that’s perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until they’re soft.
3. Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly, then peel and mash them with a fork.
4. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
5. Add the mashed sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Sweet Potato Paratha
Sweet Potato Paratha Recipe
Experience the warm, comforting taste of sweet potatoes wrapped in a crispy, flavorful flatbread with this Sweet Potato Paratha recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
7. Cook the paratha for 30 seconds on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch of 2-3 parathas
Sweet Potato and Paneer Tikka
Sweet Potato and Paneer Tikka: A Twist on Traditional Indian Cuisine
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of paneer, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices. The result is a unique and flavorful appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ghee or oil, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder.
3. Add the paneer cubes and sweet potato chunks to the marinade; mix well.
4. Thread marinated sweet potatoes and paneer onto skewers, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the paneer is lightly charred.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Fenugreek Stir Fry
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the slightly bitter flavor of fenugreek, creating a unique and aromatic stir-fry. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (or substitute with spinach or kale)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chili flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sweet potato pieces and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the fenugreek leaves (or substitute) and cook until wilted.
6. Season with salt to taste, and add chili flakes if desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Sweet Potato and Tamarind Chutney
Sweet Potato and Tamarind Chutney: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
This sweet potato and tamarind chutney is a unique and flavorful condiment that’s perfect for serving alongside snacks, appetizers, or as a dip. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the tamarind, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, tamarind paste, brown sugar, water, and lemon juice.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding salt to taste.
4. Simmer the chutney over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Sweet Potato and Rice Kheer
A creamy and comforting dessert that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of aromatic spices, this Sweet Potato and Rice Kheer is a unique twist on traditional Indian kheers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater (optional)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine rice and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
2. Add mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, cardamom, saffron, and rosewater (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Sweet Potato and Cauliflower Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry combines roasted sweet potatoes and cauliflower with aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal. With minimal prep time and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes and cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add roasted sweet potatoes and cauliflower to the pan, along with coconut milk. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Coconut Ladoo
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of coconut to create a delicious and unique dessert. Perfect for snack time or as a special treat, these ladoos are easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, unsweetened shredded coconut, condensed milk, honey, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well until a dough forms.
2. Shape the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 ladoos.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the shape.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These ladoos are no-bake and ready to enjoy in just a few minutes of mixing and shaping.
Summary
Discover the delicious world of sweet potatoes with these 18 Indian-inspired recipes! From spicy curries to savory stir-fries, and from sweet halwas to crispy samosas, this collection has something for everyone. Explore popular dishes like Spicy Sweet Potato Curry, Sweet Potato Masala Fry, and Sweet Potato Tikki Chaat, as well as innovative creations like Sweet Potato and Spinach Sabzi and Sweet Potato Coconut Curry. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-lover, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India.
