Sweet Potatoes

Introduction

These sweet potatoes are sliced, boiled, and then dried until crisp, either in the sun for 2 to 3 days or in a dehydrator. You end up with a simple dried snack or make-ahead side that uses only sweet potatoes and water.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 days 20 minutes to 3 days 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 days 30 minutes to 3 days 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes
• Water

Instructions

1. Slice sweet potatoes in desired shape and size.
2. Boil sweet potatoes.
3. Dry in the sun for 2 to 3 days or dehydrate using a dehydrator until crispy.

Variations

• Slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds in the first step for a chip-like result that dries faster and turns out crisper.
• Cut the sweet potatoes into thicker sticks in the first step for a chewier texture with more bite.
• Use white-fleshed sweet potatoes instead of orange-fleshed ones for a less sweet, slightly firmer final texture.
• Use the dehydrator option in the last step instead of sun drying if you want more even results and a shorter overall process.

Tips for Success

• Keep the slices as even as possible in the first step so they dry at the same rate.
• If you are sun drying, place the slices in a single layer so air can move around each piece.
• The sweet potatoes are done when they feel dry all the way through and snap or stay firm instead of bending with moisture inside.
• Let the dried sweet potatoes cool completely before storing so trapped steam does not soften them.

Storage and Reheating

Store the dried sweet potatoes in an airtight container or jar. Keep them at room temperature for up to 1 week, in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat and crisp them again, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 250°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also run them through a dehydrator for a short cycle if they have picked up moisture.

FAQ

Do you need to peel the sweet potatoes first?

No. You can leave the skin on for a more rustic texture, or peel them if you want a smoother bite.

Can you skip the boiling step?

You can, but the texture will be firmer and the drying time may increase. Boiling helps the slices dry more evenly.

How do you know when they are fully dried?

They should feel dry throughout, with no damp center. If a piece bends and feels soft inside, it needs more drying time.

Can you make these without a dehydrator?

Yes. The recipe already works with sun drying, which takes 2 to 3 days. Use a dehydrator if you want a faster and more controlled result.