Imagine a side dish so stunning, it transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. These Hasselback Molasses Sweet Potatoes are not just a recipe; they're a work of art that combines the rich, caramelized sweetness of molasses with the creamy, tender texture of perfectly roasted sweet potatoes. Each slice is a flavor explosion waiting to happen, promising to elevate your dining table from mundane to magnificent!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Trim a small slice off the bottom of each potato so they sit flat on the baking sheet.
- Place each potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoon handles to prevent cutting all the way through. Carefully make thin, close slices across the potato, about 1/8 inch apart, stopping just before cutting through the bottom.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, molasses, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Brush the potatoes generously with the molasses-butter mixture, making sure to get the mixture between the slices. Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat thoroughly.
- Place the prepared potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, removing every 15 minutes to baste with additional molasses-butter mixture.
- The potatoes are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are crispy and caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 210°F (99°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with any remaining molasses-butter mixture if desired.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Chopstick Trick: Use wooden chopsticks or wooden spoon handles on either side of the potato while slicing to prevent cutting all the way through. This creates those signature fan-like cuts that look professional and allow the sauce to penetrate deeply.
- Sauce Penetration: Take your time when brushing the molasses-butter mixture, ensuring it gets between each slice. This guarantees maximum flavor in every bite.
- Basting is Key: Don't skip the basting process! Removing the potatoes every 15 minutes to reapply the sauce creates those irresistible caramelized edges and keeps the potato moist.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 210°F (99°C) for perfect doneness.
- Let it Rest: Allow the potatoes to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing and serving easier.Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
