Pan-Roasted Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes Recipe

This Pan-Roasted Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes recipe is a delightful side dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and nuttiness to your holiday table. Featuring tender rounds of caramelized sweet potatoes drizzled with a bourbon glaze and garnished with toasted pecans, parsley, and pomegranate seeds, this dish adds vibrant colors and festive flavors to your Thanksgiving spread.

What Are Pan-Roasted Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes?

Pan-roasted Thanksgiving sweet potatoes are a refined twist on a classic holiday favorite. These sweet potatoes are first boiled for tenderness, then caramelized in a skillet for a golden, crispy exterior. A bourbon glaze adds rich sweetness and warmth, while lime juice, pecans, parsley, and pomegranate seeds provide brightness and texture, making this dish an elegant addition to any holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavors: Sweet, tangy, nutty, and fresh—all in one dish.
• Vibrant Presentation: The colorful garnish makes this dish a showstopper.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps.
• Versatile Pairing: Complements a variety of holiday mains.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes:
  • 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch-thick rounds
• Seasonings:
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, divided
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Bourbon Glaze:
  • 1/3 cup bourbon
  • Juice and zest of 1/2 a lime, divided
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• For Cooking and Garnish:
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1/4 cup pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil Sweet Potatoes

1. Place the sweet potato rounds in a medium saucepan and cover them with cold water by a few inches.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil.
3. Cook until fork-tender, about 6 to 7 minutes.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.

Prepare Bourbon Glaze

1. In a medium sauté pan, combine the bourbon, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ground ginger.
2. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the alcohol cooks out.
3. Stir in the butter until the mixture becomes smooth and syrupy.
4. Add lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Pan-Roast Sweet Potatoes

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the seasoned sweet potatoes in an even layer.
3. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the undersides caramelize and turn golden brown.
4. Carefully flip the potatoes and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully golden.
5. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a large serving platter.

Finish and Serve

1. Reheat the bourbon glaze if necessary and add toasted pecans and chopped parsley, stirring to combine.
2. Spoon the glaze generously over the pan-roasted sweet potatoes.
3. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and lime zest for a festive finish.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with classic Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetarian main. Complement the dish with a crisp white wine or a sparkling cider for a complete holiday experience.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the cooked sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, adding a little oil if needed to restore their caramelized texture.

Recipe Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Skip the pecans and add roasted sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute butter with vegan butter and ensure the bourbon is vegan-friendly.
• Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure the bourbon is certified gluten-free if necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sweet potatoes and glaze separately, then pan-roast and assemble just before serving.

What can I substitute for bourbon?
You can use apple cider or orange juice for a non-alcoholic glaze with similar sweetness and acidity.

How do I toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant.

This Pan-Roasted Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes recipe is a surefire way to elevate your holiday meal. With its caramelized sweetness, vibrant garnishes, and festive glaze, it’s a dish your family and friends will rave about. Try it this Thanksgiving and let the flavors shine!

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