Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Name: Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes because they bring a vibrant burst of flavor to any meal. The sweet and spicy blend of jerk seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. Each time I prepare this dish, the tantalizing aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of sunny days spent enjoying Caribbean cuisine. Plus, they're incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prep, making them a staple in my household. When roasted, they achieve a delightful crispiness that I can never resist!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:04:16.652Z

Making Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes has become one of my favorite recipes to share with friends and family. I've spent time perfecting the balance of spices, and I must say, the result is a deliciously satisfying side dish that complements a variety of main courses. The use of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely caramelized finish that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I've also learned that using a mix of sweet potatoes and regular potatoes can add depth to the dish. Roasting them in a hot oven ensures they cook evenly, yielding a caramelized exterior and fluffy interior. If you like a kick, don’t hesitate to add extra jerk seasoning to amp up the spice level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The unique kick of Jamaican jerk seasoning intertwined with sweet potato goodness
Easy prep with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weekdays
Versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on their own

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a flavorful blend that includes ingredients like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. This unique combination not only adds a spicy kick but also enhances the inherent sweetness of the sweet potatoes. The heat from the seasoning balances beautifully with the sweetness, making each bite a delicious adventure. If you're sensitive to spice, you can adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to your taste, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this dish.

When selecting jerk seasoning, consider whether you want it to be wet or dry. Dry seasoning is great for a more concentrated flavor and can easily be mixed with the olive oil and maple syrup in this recipe. Wet marinades can sometimes be more flavorful but may require adjusting the cooking time slightly to account for the additional moisture. Experimenting with both will give you insight into what complements your palate best.

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Potatoes

To ensure your sweet potatoes roast evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness, make sure to cut them into uniform cubes, roughly 1-inch in size. This allows for consistent cooking, meaning every piece will be tender inside while developing golden, crispy edges on the outside. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; spreading the potatoes in a single layer will enable optimum roasting and prevent steaming.

Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes towards the end of the cooking time. You’re looking for tender chunks with slightly caramelized edges, typically taking about 25-30 minutes. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly. Conversely, if they seem too soft and are not browning, an extra 5-10 minutes can help achieve that delightful texture without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Be sure to use fresh ingredients to elevate the flavors!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious roasted sweet potatoes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create that beautiful caramelization on the sweet potatoes.

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, jerk seasoning, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Roast the Potatoes

Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy, flipping halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once roasted, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Enjoy the explosive flavors of Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving to enhance the flavor further.

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes can serve as an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, pork, or fish. Pair them with a zesty lime wedge or a cooling yogurt sauce to further elevate the meal’s flavors. If you want to make this dish the star of your meal, serve it on a bed of greens with avocado slices for a refreshing salad.

For a heartier option, consider adding black beans or chickpeas to create a more filling vegetarian entrée. These ingredients not only complement the sweet potatoes but also add protein, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Drizzle some extra olive oil and a sprinkle of lime juice over the top for a bright finish.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. They reheat very well, making them perfect for meal prep. To retain their crispy texture, I recommend reheating them on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, giving them a quick toss halfway through to ensure even warmth.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked potatoes. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, pop them directly into a hot oven from the freezer; they may need a bit more time in the oven but will still retain their delightful texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but the cooking time might vary slightly. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

→ What is Jamaican jerk seasoning?

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a spicy mix that typically includes allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, and various other spices. You can find it pre-made or make your own at home.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it doesn't contain any animal products. Just ensure any sides or garnishes you choose to use are also vegan!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.