purple sweet potato recipe

Purple sweet potatoes are more than just a visually stunning ingredient they’re a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor! Whether roasted, mashed, baked, or blended into desserts, these vibrant tubers add a unique twist to classic recipes.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about purple sweet potatoes: from their health benefits to mouthwatering recipes that highlight their natural sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish, a creative dessert, or a vegan-friendly meal, this article has you covered.

What Are Purple Sweet Potatoes?

Purple sweet potatoes are a variety of sweet potatoes known for their deep violet flesh. Unlike regular orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, these vibrant tubers contain anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in blueberries. Their flavor is slightly sweeter and nuttier, making them perfect for both savory and sweet dishes.

There are different types of purple sweet potatoes, including:

• Okinawan sweet potatoes – Popular in Hawaii, these have a beige skin and rich purple interior.
• Stokes Purple sweet potatoes – These have a deeper purple skin and denser texture, making them great for baking.
• Ube (Dioscorea alata) – While often mistaken for a sweet potato, ube is actually a purple yam commonly used in Filipino desserts.

Health Benefits of Purple Sweet Potatoes

Besides their stunning color, purple sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients that promote overall health:
Rich in antioxidants – The anthocyanins in purple sweet potatoes help combat oxidative stress, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Boosts gut health – Packed with fiber, they support digestion and a healthy gut microbiome.
Supports eye health – Their high vitamin A content promotes good vision.
Regulates blood sugar – Compared to regular potatoes, purple sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index, making them a great option for blood sugar control.

How Purple Sweet Potatoes Differ from Regular Sweet Potatoes

While all sweet potatoes are nutritious, purple sweet potatoes stand out in several ways:

• Color & Antioxidants – Their deep purple hue signals a high anthocyanin content, whereas orange sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene.
• Texture & Flavor – Purple sweet potatoes tend to be denser and slightly drier, with a mildly nutty taste.
• Cooking Methods – Due to their firm texture, they hold up well when roasted or baked but take longer to cook than regular sweet potatoes.

Choosing and Preparing Purple Sweet Potatoes

How to Select the Best Purple Sweet Potatoes

When choosing purple sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free from soft spots or mold. Wrinkled or cracked skin can indicate dryness, which may affect texture.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Skin Color – Stokes Purple potatoes have deep purple skin, while Okinawan sweet potatoes have a lighter tan exterior.
• Size & Shape – Medium-sized potatoes (about 5–7 inches long) cook evenly and are easier to handle.
• Weight – A heavier potato means higher moisture content, which results in a creamier texture.

Storage Tips for Keeping Them Fresh

Proper storage extends the shelf life of purple sweet potatoes and preserves their natural sweetness.

• Store in a cool, dark place – Avoid refrigeration, as cold temperatures can alter texture and flavor.
• Keep them dry – Moisture speeds up spoilage, so avoid washing until you’re ready to use them.
• Use within a few weeks – Freshly harvested purple sweet potatoes last 2–3 weeks when stored correctly.

How to Properly Wash and Peel Purple Sweet Potatoes

Before cooking, rinse the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. If peeling, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, but keep in mind that the skin contains fiber and nutrients.

For easy peeling:

1. Boil the potatoes for about 5 minutes.
2. Let them cool slightly, then rub the skin off with a paper towel.

Easy Purple Sweet Potato Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple yet flavorful recipe highlights the natural sweetness of purple sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 2 large purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This roasted purple sweet potato recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor.

1. Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the potatoes

• Cut the purple sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
• Toss them in olive oil, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

3. Roast to perfection

• Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

4. Add finishing touches

• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
• Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of flavor.

Tips for Achieving the Best Texture and Flavor

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Spreading the potatoes evenly ensures crispy edges.
• Use high heat – Roasting at 400°F caramelizes the natural sugars, enhancing sweetness.
• Experiment with seasonings – Add smoked paprika for a savory twist or nutmeg for warmth.

Variations of Purple Sweet Potato Recipes

Purple sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them a great ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes. Whether mashed, fried, or turned into a creamy soup, these recipes will add vibrant color and nutrition to your meals.

Purple Sweet Potato Mash

If you love classic mashed potatoes, this purple sweet potato version will be your new favorite. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 2 large purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp butter (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
• ¼ cup milk (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash with a potato masher or hand mixer.
3. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, mixing until smooth.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Purple Sweet Potato Fries

Craving crispy fries? These purple sweet potato fries are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative.

How to Make Them:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut purple sweet potatoes into thin fries.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and smoked paprika.
4. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Purple Sweet Potato Soup

A comforting bowl of purple sweet potato soup is perfect for chilly days. It’s smooth, creamy, and naturally gluten-free.

Quick Recipe:

1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
2. Add peeled and diced purple sweet potatoes and vegetable broth.
3. Simmer until soft, then blend until smooth.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Desserts Using Purple Sweet Potato

If you have a sweet tooth, purple sweet potatoes can take your desserts to the next level! Their natural sweetness and creamy texture make them a fantastic base for pies, cakes, and even ice cream.

Purple Sweet Potato Pie

Move over pumpkin pie this purple sweet potato pie is the ultimate showstopper! It’s rich, smooth, and beautifully vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups mashed purple sweet potatoes
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour into the pie crust and bake for 45–50 minutes.
4. Let cool before serving with whipped cream.

Purple Sweet Potato Ice Cream

Creamy, dreamy, and dairy-free! This purple sweet potato ice cream is a must-try.

How to Make It:

1. Blend mashed purple sweet potatoes with coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Chill the mixture for 1 hour.
3. Churn in an ice cream maker until thick.
4. Freeze for 2–3 hours before serving.

Purple Sweet Potato Mochi or Cake

• Mochi: Mix mashed purple sweet potatoes with glutinous rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk, then steam until chewy.
• Cake: Replace pumpkin puree with purple sweet potato puree in any cake recipe for a denser, richer texture.

For more delicious desserts, check out the chocolate chip muffin recipe on Tasty Meal Diary!

Vegan & Gluten-Free Purple Sweet Potato Recipes

If you’re looking for plant-based or gluten-free options, purple sweet potatoes are a fantastic ingredient. They’re naturally free of gluten, dairy, and refined sugars, making them perfect for a variety of healthy meals. Whether baked, mashed, or blended, these recipes are packed with nutrients and flavor!

How to Make a Vegan-Friendly Purple Sweet Potato Dish

One of the easiest ways to enjoy purple sweet potatoes in a vegan diet is by making roasted purple sweet potatoes with tahini dressing.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium purple sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss cubed purple sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and paprika.
3. Spread evenly and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Whisk tahini, lemon juice, and maple syrup together for a creamy drizzle.
5. Serve warm with the dressing on top!

Gluten-Free Baking with Purple Sweet Potatoes

Since purple sweet potatoes have a dense, starchy texture, they work great in gluten-free baking. Try using mashed purple sweet potatoes in muffins, pancakes, or brownies for a naturally moist and sweet alternative to flour-based recipes.

Easy Gluten-Free Purple Sweet Potato Pancakes

1. Mix 1 cup mashed purple sweet potatoes with ½ cup oat flour, 1 mashed banana, and ½ cup almond milk.
2. Stir in 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ tsp baking powder.
3. Cook on a greased pan over medium heat until golden brown.
4. Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Once you’ve made a delicious purple sweet potato recipe, it’s time to think about how to serve it! The best part? These vibrant potatoes go well with both sweet and savory dishes.

Best Dishes to Serve with Purple Sweet Potatoes

• Roasted Vegetables – Pair with carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers for a colorful plate.
• Grilled Proteins – Serve alongside chicken, salmon, or tofu for a balanced meal.
• Salads – Toss cubed purple sweet potatoes into a quinoa or kale salad for extra texture.
• Rice & Grains – Mix into rice bowls or serve over couscous for added nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present Purple Sweet Potato Dishes

Presentation matters! Try these eye-catching ways to serve your purple sweet potato recipes:

• Mash & swirl – Create a marbled effect by swirling mashed purple and orange sweet potatoes together.
• Layer in bowls – Use roasted purple sweet potatoes as a base for grain bowls with avocado, beans, and greens.
• Stuffed sweet potatoes – Bake whole potatoes, then fill with black beans, salsa, and guacamole for a flavorful dish.

FAQs

Still have questions about purple sweet potatoes? Here are answers to some of the most common queries!

How do you store cooked purple sweet potatoes?

Cooked purple sweet potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or bake them until warm.

Can you eat purple sweet potatoes raw?

While it’s safe to eat them raw, purple sweet potatoes are starchy and firm, making them difficult to chew. Cooking helps break down the starch, enhances their sweetness, and makes them easier to digest. If you want to enjoy them raw, try grating them into salads or smoothies.

What makes purple sweet potatoes purple?

The deep purple color comes from anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant also found in blueberries and red cabbage. These compounds provide health benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting brain health.

Are purple sweet potatoes healthier than regular sweet potatoes?

Both varieties are highly nutritious! However, purple sweet potatoes contain more anthocyanins, while orange sweet potatoes are richer in beta-carotene. Both are great choices, depending on your nutritional needs.

Conclusion

From savory to sweet, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to enjoy purple sweet potatoes. Their nutrient-dense profile, vibrant color, and naturally sweet taste make them a fantastic ingredient for every meal. Whether you’re roasting them, baking them into desserts, or blending them into soups, these unique tubers bring both flavor and health benefits to your plate.

If you’re new to cooking with purple sweet potatoes, start with a simple roasted dish or creamy mash. Once you’re comfortable, try out more creative recipes like purple sweet potato pancakes, fries, or even ice cream!

Final Tip:

Since purple sweet potatoes are denser than regular sweet potatoes, they may take slightly longer to cook. If you’re baking or roasting, be patient the results are well worth it!

If you’re looking for more tasty recipes, check out our collection of delicious meal ideas!