Sweet Potato Hash is the kind of dish that effortlessly fits into any meal of the day. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nutritious ingredients, it’s both comforting and energizing. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory vegetarian option or want to add your favorite protein for an extra boost, this recipe is as flexible as it is satisfying. Featuring perfectly caramelized sweet potatoes, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a hint of spice, this hash is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green works well)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumi
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked protein (optional: sausage, bacon, chorizo, or even black beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 4 eggs (optional, to top with fried or poached eggs)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces). This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Optional: Soak the diced sweet potatoes in cold water for about 15-20 minutes to remove some of the starch, which can help them crisp up better when cooking.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, until they begin to soften and slightly crisp on the edges.
- If the sweet potatoes are sticking, you can add a splash of water or a little extra oil to help them cook through.
3. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Stir well to combine with the sweet potatoes.
- Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld together.
4. Add Protein (Optional):
- If you’re using cooked protein (such as crumbled sausage, bacon, or chorizo), add it to the skillet now and cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and blend together.
- For a vegetarian version, black beans or tofu work well as a protein addition. Add them to the pan at this point.
5. Finish the Hash:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
- If you want to top the hash with fried or poached eggs, you can cook them in a separate pan while the hash finishes cooking. Alternatively, you can crack the eggs directly into the hash and cover the pan to cook the eggs through until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
5. Serve:
- Once the hash is done, serve it hot, topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- For a complete breakfast or brunch, serve the hash with fried or poached eggs on top, or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Tips and Variations:
- Spicy Kick: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the hash.
- Sweet and Savory: Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup towards the end of cooking for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables, like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Crispy: For an extra crispy finish, once the sweet potatoes are cooked, flatten the mixture out in the pan and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This helps the sweet potatoes get a nice crispy edge.
