Sweet potatoes are a staple ingredient in many recipes, from sweet potato fries to casseroles. But cutting sweet potatoes can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know the proper techniques. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cut sweet potatoes like a pro.
Tools Needed
Before you start cutting sweet potatoes, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- A sharp chef’s knife or santoku knife
- A cutting board
- A vegetable peeler (optional)
- A clean kitchen towel or paper towels
Make sure your knife is sharp and in good condition before you start cutting. A dull knife can be dangerous and make it harder to cut through the sweet potato.
Preparing the Sweet Potato
Before you start cutting the sweet potato, it’s important to clean and prep it properly.
Cleaning the Sweet Potato
Wash the sweet potato under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable scrubber to scrub the skin gently if needed.
Peeling the Sweet Potato
If you prefer to peel the sweet potato, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Hold the sweet potato with one hand and the peeler with the other hand. Start at the top of the sweet potato and peel downwards, rotating the sweet potato as you go. Try to remove only the skin and not too much of the flesh.
Tip: You don’t have to peel the sweet potato if you don’t want to. The skin is edible and contains many nutrients.
Basic Cutting Techniques
Once your sweet potato is prepped, you’re ready to start cutting. Here are the basic cutting techniques for sweet potatoes:
Cutting Sweet Potato Cubes
The most common way to cut sweet potatoes is into cubes. Cubed sweet potatoes are perfect for roasting, frying, or adding to soups and stews. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the sweet potato on the cutting board and cut off the ends with a knife.
- Stand the sweet potato on one end and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board and slice it into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Cut each slice into 1/2 inch cubes.
Cutting Sweet Potato Wedges
Wedges are another popular shape for sweet potatoes. Wedges are great for roasting or grilling. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut off the ends of the sweet potato and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board and cut it in half lengthwise again.
- Cut each quarter into 1/2 inch thick wedges.
Tip: For crispier wedges, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps them cook more evenly.
Advanced Cutting Techniques
If you want to get more creative with your sweet potato cutting, here are some advanced techniques to try:
Julienne
Julienne is a French term for cutting vegetables into thin matchstick-like pieces. Julienne sweet potatoes are great for stir-fries or salads. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut off the ends of the sweet potato and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board and slice it into thin, even slices.
- Cut each slice into thin matchstick-like pieces.
Batonnet
Batonnet is a French term for cutting vegetables into long, thin rectangular shapes. Batonnet sweet potatoes are great for roasting or making sweet potato fries. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut off the ends of the sweet potato and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board and slice it into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Cut each slice into long, thin rectangular shapes.
Dice
Diced sweet potatoes are similar to cubed sweet potatoes, but smaller. Diced sweet potatoes are great for adding to soups, stews, or salads. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut off the ends of the sweet potato and cut it in half lengthwise.
- Place the flat side of each half down on the cutting board and slice it into thin, even slices.
- Cut each slice into small, even cubes.
Tips for Safe Cutting
Cutting sweet potatoes can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Use a Sharp Knife
A dull knife is more likely to slip and cause an accident. Make sure your knife is sharp and in good condition before you start cutting.
Use a Cutting Board
Don’t cut sweet potatoes on a countertop or any other surface. Use a cutting board to prevent damage to your knives and to make cutting easier.
Watch Your Fingers
Be careful not to cut your fingers while cutting sweet potatoes. Keep your fingers away from the blade and use a claw grip to hold the sweet potato in place.
Take Your Time
Rushing can lead to accidents. Take your time and focus on your cutting technique.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to peel the sweet potato before cutting it?
A: It depends on your preference and the recipe you’re making. If you want to remove the skin, you can use a vegetable peeler or a knife to peel the sweet potato before cutting it. However, leaving the skin on can add extra nutrients and flavor to your dish.
Q: Can I cut sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cut sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, cut sweet potatoes will start to oxidize and turn brown after a while, so it’s best to use them as soon as possible.
Q: How should I store leftover sweet potatoes?
A: Store leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop before eating.
Q: Can I freeze sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze sweet potatoes. Peel and cut them into the desired shape, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before using them.
Q: How do I know if a sweet potato is fresh?
A: Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises, cracks, or soft spots. Fresh sweet potatoes should also have a sweet smell and a vibrant color.
Q: Can I use a mandoline to cut sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use a mandoline to cut sweet potatoes. Just make sure to use the safety guard to protect your fingers and adjust the thickness setting to your desired thickness.
Q: How can I prevent my sweet potatoes from sticking to the cutting board?
A: Sweet potatoes can be sticky, so it’s best to use a wooden cutting board or a plastic cutting board sprayed with cooking spray to prevent them from sticking. You can also dip your knife in cold water before cutting to help prevent sticking.
Q: Can I eat raw sweet potatoes?
A: It’s not recommended to eat raw sweet potatoes as they can be hard to digest and may contain harmful toxins. Always cook sweet potatoes before eating them.
Conclusion
Cutting sweet potatoes is easy once you know the proper techniques. Whether you’re cubing, wedging, julienning, batonneting, or dicing, these tips will help you cut sweet potatoes like a pro. Remember to use a sharp knife, a cutting board, and to watch your fingers. Happy cutting!