Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large, wide sweet potato: Choose one that is relatively uniform in shape and width to ensure consistent “toast” slices. The garnet or jewel varieties work best due to their vibrant color and moisture content.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil: This is optional but highly recommended. A light coating of oil helps the sweet potato slices cook evenly, prevents them from drying out, and gives them wonderfully crisp edges, especially when using an oven or air fryer.
- Pinch of fine sea salt: A little salt enhances the natural sweetness of the potato and provides a perfect flavor base for any toppings, whether sweet or savory.
- Optional seasonings (to taste): A dash of cinnamon, a sprinkle of garlic powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika can be added before toasting to infuse the slices with extra flavor.
Instructions
Making sweet potato toast is wonderfully simple. The key is achieving a slice that is cooked through and tender but still firm enough to hold toppings. Below are the two most effective methods.
Method 1: The Toaster (The Quickest Way)
- Prepare the Sweet Potato: Wash and scrub the sweet potato thoroughly to remove any dirt. There is no need to peel it, as the skin contains valuable fiber and nutrients and helps the slice hold its shape. Pat it completely dry.
- Slice It: Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice the sweet potato lengthwise into uniform planks, about ¼-inch to ⅓-inch thick. If the potato is very long, you can cut it in half crosswise before slicing. Slicing too thin will cause it to burn or become flimsy; too thick, and it won’t cook through in the center.
- Toast: Place the sweet potato slices directly into the slots of your pop-up toaster. Set the toaster to the highest setting.
- Repeat: You will need to toast the slices for 2 to 4 cycles, depending on the power of your toaster and the thickness of your slices. After the first cycle, let them cool for a moment before pushing the lever down again. The toast is ready when it is tender all the way through when pierced with a fork and the edges are slightly browned.
Method 2: The Oven or Air Fryer (Best for Batch Cooking)
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Sweet Potato: Wash, scrub, and dry the sweet potato. Slice it into uniform ¼-inch thick planks.
- Season: In a medium bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with the avocado oil (or oil of choice) and a pinch of salt. Ensure each slice is lightly and evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a great texture in the oven or air fryer.
- Arrange: Place the seasoned slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them, as this will cause them to steam rather than roast. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. They are done when they are fork-tender and the edges are caramelized and slightly crispy.
- Air Fryer: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 130