Sweet potatoes are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is grilling them on a charcoal grill, which imparts a smoky flavor and caramelizes the natural sugars in the potatoes. But how long does it take to cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill?

The cooking time for sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill depends on several factors, including their size and thickness. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill. It’s important to remember that grilling times may vary, so it’s essential to monitor the potatoes closely to prevent them from overcooking.

To cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill, start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. Then, scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Next, lightly coat the potatoes with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil to keep the heat in and place them directly on the grill grates.

During the grilling process, it’s crucial to periodically check the potatoes for doneness. You can do this by inserting a fork or skewer into the thickest part of the potato. If it easily slides through, the sweet potatoes are cooked. However, if there is resistance, they need more time to cook.

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully unwrap the foil and serve the sweet potatoes hot. They can be enjoyed as a side dish, mashed, or incorporated into various recipes.

In conclusion, cooking sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill can be a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The cooking time may vary, but with a little practice and careful monitoring, you can achieve perfectly grilled sweet potatoes every time. So fire up the grill, grab some sweet potatoes, and get ready to enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal.

How to Cook Sweet Potatoes on Charcoal Grill

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Sweet potatoes can be a delicious and healthy addition to any barbecue, and cooking them on a charcoal grill gives them a smoky, charred flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, here’s how you can cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill:

1. Prepare the Grill

Start by preparing your charcoal grill. Remove the cooking grate and fill the bottom of the grill with charcoal. Light the charcoal and let it burn until it turns white and ashy, indicating that it’s ready for cooking.

2. Clean and Prep the Sweet Potatoes

While the grill is heating up, clean the sweet potatoes and remove any dirt or debris. Leave the skin on for added flavor and nutrients. Cut the sweet potatoes into slices or wedges, depending on your preference. Coat them lightly with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Set Up the Grill

Once the charcoal is ready, spread it evenly in the grill and replace the cooking grate. Brush the grate lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sweet potato slices or wedges directly on the hot grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes per side, or until they are tender and charred to your liking. Use tongs to flip them halfway through the cooking process.

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5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. Serve them as a side dish or as a main course with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, cheese, or salsa.

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Now you know how to cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill! It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious root vegetable while adding a smoky twist to your meal. So fire up the grill and give it a try!

Tips for Preparing Sweet Potatoes

When it comes to cooking sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. These tips will ensure that your sweet potatoes turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes

When selecting sweet potatoes for grilling, choose ones that are firm and without blemishes. Look for sweet potatoes that have a vibrant color and are free from any soft spots.

2. Clean and Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Prior to grilling, make sure to clean and prep the sweet potatoes. Scrub the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can choose to leave the skin on or peel it off, depending on your preference.

3. Parboil the Sweet Potatoes

Parboiling the sweet potatoes before grilling can help speed up the cooking process and ensure that they are evenly cooked. Place the cleaned sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender. Drain and pat dry before grilling.

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4. Season the Sweet Potatoes

Before grilling, season the sweet potatoes to enhance their natural flavor. You can simply sprinkle them with salt and pepper, or get creative with other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like rosemary and thyme.

5. Use Foil or Grill Baskets

To prevent the sweet potatoes from falling through the grill grates, you can wrap them in aluminum foil or use a grill basket. This will make it easier to flip and remove the sweet potatoes from the grill.

6. Cook with Indirect Heat

When grilling sweet potatoes, it’s best to cook them using indirect heat. This means placing them on the grill away from the direct flames. This will allow them to cook through evenly without burning.

7. Cook Until Tender

Cook the sweet potatoes on the charcoal grill for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potatoes, as well as the temperature of your grill.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to prepare delicious sweet potatoes on your charcoal grill that are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or cookout.

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Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When it comes to grilling sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill, choosing the right potatoes can make a big difference in their final taste and texture. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best sweet potatoes for grilling:

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Variety

There are different varieties of sweet potatoes available, each with its own unique flavor and texture. For grilling, it is best to choose sweet potatoes with a firm texture that will hold up well on the grill. The most common variety for grilling is the orange-fleshed sweet potato, which is often labeled as “yam” in the United States.

Size

When selecting sweet potatoes for grilling, it is important to choose potatoes that are of similar size. This will ensure that they cook evenly and at the same rate. Look for sweet potatoes that are medium to large in size, as smaller potatoes may become too soft before they are fully cooked.

Tip: Avoid sweet potatoes with soft spots, bruises, or any signs of decay as these may affect the quality and taste of the final grilled sweet potatoes.

By following these tips, you can choose the right sweet potatoes for grilling on a charcoal grill and ensure that they turn out deliciously grilled and full of flavor.

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Preparing the Charcoal Grill

To cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill, you’ll need to properly prepare the grill to ensure even cooking and delicious results. Follow these steps to get your grill ready:

Step 1: Gather your supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You’ll need charcoal briquettes, a chimney starter, lighter fluid, long-handled tongs, and a grill brush.

Step 2: Set up the charcoal grill

Choose a safe and well-ventilated area to set up your charcoal grill. Make sure it is away from any flammable objects or structures.

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Place the grill on a level surface and remove the cooking grate.

Fill a chimney starter three-quarters of the way with charcoal briquettes. Add some newspaper to the bottom of the chimney starter and light it up.

Let the charcoal briquettes burn until they have a layer of white ash on top, indicating they are ready for cooking.

Step 3: Arrange the charcoal briquettes

Using long-handled tongs, carefully transfer the hot charcoal briquettes to one side of the grill, creating a two-zone fire.

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This will provide you with both direct and indirect heat cooking zones.

Clean the cooking grate with a grill brush to remove any debris or leftover residue.

Your charcoal grill is now prepared and ready for cooking sweet potatoes!

Grilling Sweet Potatoes

Grilling sweet potatoes is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile root vegetable. Whether you are grilling them for a summer barbecue or simply for a weeknight dinner, the smoky flavor and crisp exterior add a new dimension to the sweet and creamy flesh of sweet potatoes.

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When grilling sweet potatoes, it’s important to choose the right ones. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any sweet potatoes that have soft spots or signs of mold.

Tip: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes as they will cook more evenly on the grill.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Before grilling, it’s essential to prepare the sweet potatoes. Start by washing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.

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Next, cut the sweet potatoes into even slices or wedges. Make sure that the pieces are of similar thickness to ensure even cooking. Toss the sweet potato slices or wedges with olive oil, salt, and any other desired seasonings.

Tip: Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or paprika can enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Grilling the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat the charcoal grill to medium heat. Once hot, place the sweet potato slices or wedges directly on the grill grates. Cook them for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until they are tender and have grill marks.

Keep a close eye on the sweet potatoes as they can quickly burn due to their natural sugars. Use a spatula or tongs to flip the sweet potato slices or wedges halfway through the cooking time.

Tip: If you prefer softer sweet potatoes, you can wrap them in aluminum foil before grilling. This method will create a steamy environment and result in tender sweet potatoes.

Serving Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a standalone snack.

Grilled sweet potatoes can also be used as a base for various toppings and fillings. Consider topping them with melted cheese, sour cream, or salsa for a tasty twist.

Tip: Leftover grilled sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven for quick and easy meals.

Grilling sweet potatoes adds a smoky and caramelized flavor that elevates their natural sweetness. So fire up your charcoal grill and enjoy the deliciousness of grilled sweet potatoes!

Q&A

Can I cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can absolutely cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill. It’s a great way to infuse them with a smoky flavor.

How long do I need to cook sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill?

The cooking time for sweet potatoes on a charcoal grill can vary depending on their size. Generally, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to cook sweet potatoes until they are tender and fully cooked.

Should I wrap the sweet potatoes in foil before grilling?

Wrapping the sweet potatoes in foil before grilling is a personal preference. It can help to speed up the cooking process and keep the sweet potatoes moist. However, some people prefer to grill them without foil for a slightly charred and crispy skin.

What is the best way to prepare sweet potatoes for grilling?

The best way to prepare sweet potatoes for grilling is to scrub them clean and then pierce them with a fork a few times. This allows steam to escape and prevents the sweet potatoes from bursting while cooking.

Can I add any seasonings or toppings to the sweet potatoes while grilling?

Yes, you can definitely add seasonings or toppings to the sweet potatoes while grilling. Some popular options include brushing them with olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper, or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweeter flavor.