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; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes! The balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors creates a delightful side dish that everyone adores. This recipe came about after I experimented with different spice blends, and I found the combination of jerk seasoning and the natural sweetness of the potatoes is simply mesmerizing. Roasting them brings out their depth of flavor, creating a crispy exterior and a tender inside that pairs perfectly with any main dish. Prepare to impress your guests with this simple yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:10:14.381Z

I remember the first time I made Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes—they quickly became a staple in my home. The jar of jerk seasoning caught my eye while grocery shopping, and I decided to test it out with sweet potatoes, which I adore. The unexpected combination worked wonders, and now I love serving this dish for family gatherings and casual dinners alike.

During my adventures in creating this recipe, I found that the key lies in not skimping on the seasoning. Allowing the sweet potatoes to marinate in the jerk seasoning before roasting enhances the flavor tenfold. Plus, roasting them at a high temperature gives that perfect caramelization. Trust me; it’s worth the effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and vibrant flavor from the jerk seasoning
Sweet and spicy balance that complements any meal
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a flavorful blend that brings a spicy kick and aromatic depth to dishes. Typically made with ingredients like allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, and garlic, this seasoning not only enhances the sweet potatoes but also adds a unique twist that sets this dish apart. When combined with the natural sugars in sweet potatoes, the seasoning caramelizes beautifully, creating a savory-sweet experience that is hard to resist.

Choosing quality jerk seasoning can significantly impact the final flavor of your dish. Look for a mix that provides a good balance of heat and aromatic spices. If you prefer a milder spice level, consider using less jerk seasoning or mixing it with some cinnamon or nutmeg, which will complement the sweet potatoes without overwhelming them.

Roasting Tips for Sweet Potatoes

When roasting sweet potatoes, cut them into even cubes for consistent cooking. Aim for 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook through and caramelize nicely without burning. A higher oven temperature of 425°F (220°C) allows the sugars to caramelize while keeping the insides tender. Keeping an eye on them after the 20-minute mark helps avoid any over-browning or sogginess.

For extra texture, consider flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through the roasting time. This not only ensures even cooking but also promotes a crispy exterior. If you find them too soft, increase the oven temperature slightly or extend the roasting time by a few minutes, checking periodically until you achieve that desired golden-brown color.

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes make a versatile side dish, perfectly complementing grilled meats, stews, or a simple green salad. They can also stand as a main dish when served with a protein source, such as black beans or chickpeas, offering a nutritious and filling option.

Leftover sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through or sauté them briefly in a skillet, adding a sprinkle of fresh jerk seasoning to refresh the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Jamaican Jerk Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to roast your jerk sweet potatoes to perfection:

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper, tossing everything until the sweet potatoes are fully coated.

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender, tossing halfway through.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your hearty side dish!

Now you can enjoy these delicious sweet potatoes; they pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of lime juice or some diced jalapeños to the mixture before roasting.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Jamaican jerk seasoning, a homemade blend can be whipped up using common spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne for heat. Feel free to adjust the spice proportions according to your taste preferences—more cayenne for heat or more paprika for smokiness.

For those looking to reduce oil, substitute olive oil with a light spray of cooking oil to achieve a similar roasted effect with fewer calories. Additionally, coconut oil can impart a hint of tropical flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

Variations on the Dish

To add another layer of flavor, consider tossing the sweet potatoes with some chopped red onion or bell pepper before roasting. These vegetables will not only enhance the overall taste but also introduce vibrant colors to the dish, making it visually appealing.

If you're in the mood for an extra kick, try adding some chopped scotch bonnet peppers directly to the sweet potato mixture. This will amplify the heat and deepen the complexity of the dish, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the cooking time may vary.

→ What can I substitute for jerk seasoning?

You can make a homemade spice blend with paprika, cayenne, and allspice for a similar flavor.

→ Are these sweet potatoes vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Made with plant-based ingredients only, this dish is perfect for vegans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.