Sweet potatoes are a beloved root vegetable known for their natural sweetness, vibrant color, and incredible versatility. One fantastic way to enjoy sweet potatoes year-round is by making dried sweet potatoes.
This traditional method of preservation not only intensifies their natural sugars but also creates a chewy, delightful snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching, baking, or boosting your breakfast bowls.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious beginner, drying your own sweet potatoes at home is simpler than you think and yields delicious results.
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the entire process—from selecting the perfect sweet potatoes to drying techniques, and creative ways to enjoy your dried sweet potato treats. You’ll also discover useful tips to ensure your dried sweet potatoes come out perfectly every time.
Let’s dive into the wonderful world of dried sweet potatoes and unlock a new favorite snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dried sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense, naturally sweet snack that can be enjoyed anytime. Unlike processed snacks, drying your own sweet potatoes means you control the ingredients—no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
This recipe is perfect for health-conscious individuals, busy families, or anyone looking to add a wholesome snack to their pantry.
Additionally, dried sweet potatoes have a lovely chewy texture and concentrated flavor that makes them irresistible. They’re low in fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins A and C, making them a smart choice for your diet.
Plus, the drying process extends their shelf life, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them for weeks or even months.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes (preferably organic and firm)
- Water (for soaking)
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt or cinnamon for seasoning
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Large bowl (for soaking)
- Baking sheet or dehydrator trays
- Parchment paper (if using an oven)
- Oven or food dehydrator
- Airtight container or resealable bags for storage
Instructions
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then rinse under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Slice the sweet potatoes thinly. Aim for 1/8-inch thick slices for even drying. A mandoline slicer is ideal for uniformity, but a sharp knife works fine too.
- Soak the slices. Place the sweet potato slices in a large bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and prevents discoloration.
- Preheat your oven or dehydrator. Set your oven to 135°F (57°C) or your dehydrator to 130°F (54°C).
- Drain and pat dry. Remove the slices from water and dry thoroughly with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Arrange the slices. Lay the sweet potato slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets or dehydrator trays. Avoid overlapping for even drying.
- Dry the sweet potatoes. Place in the oven or dehydrator. Drying times vary: about 6-8 hours in a dehydrator or 8-10 hours in an oven. Flip slices every 2-3 hours for uniform drying.
- Check for doneness. The dried sweet potatoes should be pliable but not sticky or moist. They should feel leathery and slightly chewy.
- Cool and store. Let the dried slices cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.
Tips & Variations
“For best results, slice your sweet potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they dry uniformly.”
– Flavor variations: Sprinkle your slices lightly with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of sea salt before drying for a unique twist.
– Soaking alternative: Instead of water, soak in lemon water (water mixed with lemon juice) to enhance color retention.
– Thickness matters: Thicker slices will take longer to dry and might be chewier, while thinner ones become crispier.
– Storage tip: If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating your dried sweet potatoes to extend freshness.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 oz (28g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 6g (natural sugars) |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Vitamin A | 120% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Dried sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a healthy snack on their own, paired with nuts and dried fruits for a trail mix, or chopped and added to granola or oatmeal for extra texture and sweetness.
They also make a fantastic topping for yogurt or salads, adding a chewy sweetness that balances savory flavors. For a cozy treat, rehydrate dried sweet potato slices by simmering them in warm milk with a dash of cinnamon to create a naturally sweet puree.
If you’re feeling creative, incorporate them into baked goods like muffins or bread by chopping them finely and mixing into your batter.
Conclusion
Making your own dried sweet potatoes is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy this nutrient-packed vegetable long after harvest season ends. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a wholesome snack that satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt of processed sugars or additives.
Whether you eat them straight from the jar, mix them into your favorite dishes, or gift them to friends and family, dried sweet potatoes are a versatile pantry staple worth having on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the naturally sweet, chewy goodness of homemade dried sweet potatoes anytime you like!
📖 Recipe Card: Dried Sweet Potato
Description: A simple and healthy snack made by drying thinly sliced sweet potatoes. Perfectly chewy and naturally sweet without any added sugar.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT4H
Total Time: PT4H10M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Water for soaking
Instructions
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
- Slice sweet potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Soak slices in lemon water (1 cup water + 1 tbsp lemon juice) for 10 minutes.
- Drain and pat slices dry with a towel.
- Optional: Lightly brush slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Arrange slices on a dehydrator tray or baking sheet.
- Dry at 135°F (57°C) in dehydrator or oven for 4 hours until chewy.
- Cool completely before storing in airtight container.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 0.5 g | Carbs: 35 g
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