Breakfast

Sweet Potato Hash: A Hearty Breakfast Delight

Sweet potato hash has quickly become one of my favorite breakfast dishes. The combination of savory sautéed sweet potatoes, spices, and the ever-comforting sunny-side-up eggs makes for a truly satisfying meal. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. I love how versatile sweet potatoes are; they can be sweet or savory, and they blend beautifully with a variety of ingredients.

 

Whenever I prepare sweet potato hash, I feel like I’m treating myself to something special without any guilt. This dish is not only filling but also packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. The vibrant orange hue of sweet potatoes adds a lovely visual appeal to my breakfast plate. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that begins my day on a positive note. What really excites me about sweet potato hash is its adaptability. You can customize it according to your preferences by adding different vegetables, spices, or proteins. Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a quick weekday brunch, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious sweet potato hash:

  • Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient, offering natural sweetness, fiber, and a vibrant color.
  • Bell Peppers: Add crunch and flavor; feel free to mix and match colors for a visual delight.
  • Onion: Yellow or red onions boost flavor and sweetness.
  • Spices: Cumin, paprika, and salt elevate the dish’s profile. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Eggs: I love topping my hash with sunny-side-up eggs for protein and richness. Adjust cooking styles according to your preference.

With these ingredients at hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful breakfast that will impress anyone who joins you.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet potato hash is a breakfast choice that never disappoints for several reasons. First, its unique flavor combination is irresistible. The earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with the savory notes from cooked onions and peppers creates a heavenly balance.

It’s fairly easy to make, which is another reason I often return to this recipe. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a hearty breakfast that’s packed with nutrients. It’s also perfect for batch cooking; I can whip up a large portion to enjoy throughout the week. This makes my mornings much smoother!

Moreover, I love that sweet potato hash can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This adaptability makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or simply on its own, it remains a tasty option with plenty of nutrition.

Recipe Summary

This sweet potato hash brings together the delightful flavors of sautéed sweet potatoes, colorful bell peppers, and onions, finished with perfectly cooked sunny-side-up eggs. The foundation is simply cooked sweet potatoes mixed with your favorite spices, creating a comforting breakfast plate. This dish is not only visually appealing but also highly nourishing. I’ll guide you through the steps to create this hearty dish, ensuring you enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information of Sweet Potato Hash

Sweet potato hash is not only delicious but also nutritious. A typical serving size, which includes sweet potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and eggs, provides a good balance of macro nutrients and essential vitamins.

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, making it a satisfying option for breakfast or brunch.
  • Protein: Around 12-15 grams, mainly from the eggs, which helps in muscle repair and growth.
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50 grams primarily from sweet potatoes, providing a steady energy source.
  • Fat: Typically 15-20 grams, derived from the cooking oil and eggs, contributing to flavor and breakdown of vitamins.
  • Fiber: About 6 grams, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

The sweet potatoes in this dish are also rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium, making sweet potato hash a nutritious choice to start your day.

How to Make Sweet Potato Hash

Cooking sweet potato hash is straight forward. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  • Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they become translucent.
  • Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing sweet potatoes into small cubes for quick cooking.
  • Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in the sweet potatoes and seasoning. Cook until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Cook the Eggs: In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side-up or your preferred style. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve: Serve the sweet potato hash on a plate, topped with the eggs. Enjoy this hearty meal immediately!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Hash

    1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using the freshest vegetables enhances flavor and nutritional value.
    2. Cut Evenly: Ensure sweet potatoes are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
    3. Cook in Batches: If making a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to prevent overcrowding in the pan.
    4. Try Different Toppings: Crumbled feta cheese, avocado, or hot sauce can take your sweet potato hash to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving sweet potato hash with various accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. A side of fresh fruit adds a refreshing touch, while a simple mixed green salad can balance the hearty dish.

For an added layer of indulgence, serve it with crispy bacon or sausage. Pair with coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice for a complete breakfast experience. If you want a touch of indulgence, a sprinkle of queso fresco or a drizzle of avocado sauce elevates the hash beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of sweet potato hash lies in its versatility. Here are some variations you can try:

  • Protein Options: Feel free to mix in cooked sausage, bacon, or black beans for added protein.
  • Herb and Spice Variations: Try adding rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add kale, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the nutrition profile and enhance flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing sweet potato hash is simple. Let it cool and transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three days. Reheat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to maintain moisture.

While I prefer eating it fresh, reheated sweet potato hash can still be delicious, making it a great option for meal prepping and quick grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute eggs with tofu or chickpea flour scramble for a vegan option.

Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Feel free to include veggies like spinach, kale, corn, or carrots for added nutrition.

Q: How do I make the sweet potatoes crispy?
A: Cut sweet potatoes into smaller pieces and ensure the skillet is hot enough to allow for browning.

Q: Can I prepare sweet potato hash in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can cook the hash ahead of time and reheat it in the morning.

Q: Is it okay to freeze the sweet potato hash?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Store in a freezer bag for up to a month; however, texture may change.

A cast iron skillet filled with colorful sweet potato hash, featuring diced sweet potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and sunny-side-up eggs. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley, while slices of whole-grain bread sit in the background, completing a hearty breakfast scene on a vibrant, sunlit table.

 

Sweet Potato Hash

Course: BreakfastCuisine: American
Servings

4

People
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Total time

35

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced About 2 lbs.

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • To taste fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

  • Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
  • Add diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
  • Create four small wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well.
  • Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the hash with your favorite vegetables or add protein like diced ham or sausage. For a little extra spice, consider adding diced jalapeños.