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Dive into a burst of flavors with our Korean Sweet Potato recipe. This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the bold and spicy kick of Gochujang, enhanced by real garlic, fresh ginger, and the rich undertones of toasted sesame oil. Roasted to perfection, each bite delivers a pleasing blend of sweet, savory, and slightly pungent notes, accompanied by crispy edges and pillowy soft centers. Topped with sesame seeds for a satisfying crunch and vibrant green onions, this creation is a captivating fusion of Korean-inspired tastes—a culinary adventure promising to tantalize your taste buds with every mouthwatering forkful.

Korean Sweet Potato garnished with sesame seeds and green onions in a gray bowl

Ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes: Provide natural sweetness and a hearty, starchy base for the dish.
Gochujang (Korean red chili paste): Adds bold, spicy, and umami flavors, infusing the dish with distinctive Korean taste.
Soy Sauce: Enhances savory depth and umami, balancing the sweet and spicy elements.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness, creating a harmonious balance and complementing the Gochujang heat.
Garlic: Provides pungent, aromatic notes, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Fresh Ginger: Infuses a bright, fresh kick, contributing complexity and depth to the taste.
Toasted Sesame Oil: Introduces a rich, nutty flavor, enhancing the overall aroma and depth.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning agents that elevate and balance flavors, ensuring a well-rounded taste.
Sesame Seeds (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the texture and visual appeal.
Green Onions: Freshens and brightens the dish, providing a mild onion flavor for balance and garnish.

Roasted potatoes on a baking sheet with a spatula

Recipe Tips and FAQs:

Can I use regular chili paste instead of Gochujang for these Korean Sweet Potatoes?

While you can use regular chili paste as a substitute for Gochujang in a pinch, it’s important to note that Gochujang has a unique flavor profile that contributes to the distinct taste of the Korean Sweet Potato dish. Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste that not only adds spiciness but also has a deep umami flavor. Regular chili paste may lack the complexity and depth that Gochujang brings. If substituting, consider adding a bit of soy sauce or miso paste to enhance the umami aspect. Keep in mind that the final result may differ from the intended flavor of the original recipe.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While sweet potatoes are recommended for this recipe due to their natural sweetness and ideal texture, you can experiment with other types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Keep in mind that the distinctive balance of sweetness and starchiness that sweet potatoes provide complements the spiciness of Gochujang, contributing to the unique flavor profile of the dish. If using different potatoes, be aware that the overall taste and texture may vary, and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach the desired tenderness. While Korean Sweet Potato is adaptable, the combination of sweet potatoes and Gochujang is what gives this dish its special character.

Is this Korean Sweet Potato recipe spicy?

Yes, this Korean Sweet Potato recipe is intended to have a spicy kick due to the inclusion of Gochujang, a Korean red chili paste known for its heat. The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference by varying the quantity of Gochujang used. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of Gochujang, and conversely, if you enjoy more heat, you can increase the quantity. Keep in mind that the spiciness is a key element of the dish, contributing to its distinctive flavor profile.

Roasted potatoes garnished with sesame seeds and green onions in a gray bowl being picked up with chopsticks

What can I serve with Korean Sweet Potatoes?

Korean Sweet Potatoes offer a delightful pairing with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef, creating a harmonious blend of spicy and savory flavors. They also make a delicious complement to steamed rice or grains like quinoa. For a plant-based option, consider pairing with stir-fried vegetables, tofu, or tempeh. Eggs, whether fried or poached, make for an excellent addition, providing a protein-rich component that complements the spicy-sweet profile. Korean banchan, like sesame spinach and cucumber kimchi, or refreshing choices such as a simple salad or sautéed leafy greens, add diverse textures and tastes to the meal. The adaptability of Korean Sweet Potatoes ensures a versatile and satisfying dining experience with creative pairings.

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Equipment

Ingredients

3 medium-sized sweet potatoes cut into cubes
1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
2-3 green onions finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel the sweet potatoes if you would like (I left the skins on to add texture) and cut them into cubes of roughly equal size.
3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
In a bowl, mix together Gochujang, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Adjust the sweetness and spiciness according to your taste.
1/4 cup Gochujang, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp fresh ginger, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
Place the sweet potato cubes in a large bowl. Pour the Gochujang sauce over the sweet potatoes and toss until they are well-coated. Season the sweet potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
Salt and pepper to taste
Spread the coated sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Be sure to stir the sweet potatoes halfway through the cooking time for even roasting.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Garnish with sesame seeds and the chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Sesame seeds for garnish, 2-3 green onions

Video

@cookinglikekate Savor Korean Sweet Potato, a perfect blend of spiciness and sweetness. Full recipe at cookinglikekate.com #korean #koreanfood #koreanrecipes #asain #asainrecipes #sweetandspicy #easyrecipes #sidedishrecipe #hashbrowns #sweetpotato #sweetpotatorecipe #koreansweetpotato #breakfastideas #brunchideas #dinnersides ♬ vlog, chill out, calm daily life(1370843) – SUNNY HOOD STUDIO

Nutrition

Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.

Hello! I'm Kate.