Why Do You Soak Sweet Potatoes Before Baking? Solved

Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Shari Mason

Imagine a cozy holiday kitchen, where the sweet scent of **cooking sweet potatoes** floats through the air. This scene reminds me of cherished moments with family.

Once, while preparing this beloved side dish, I stumbled upon an age-old practice: soaking sweet potatoes before baking.

So why do we soak sweet potatoes before baking? Let’s find out.

What’s The Purpose Of Soaking Sweet Potatoes Before Baking?

The purpose of soaking sweet potatoes before baking is to remove excess starch from their surface. Sweet potatoes [1] naturally contain starch; when you soak them, it helps release some of it into the water. 

“Almonds, carrots, quinoa, soy products, vegetable oil, corn and corn oil, canola seeds used in canola oil, beets and beet sugar, sweet potatoes – these are just some of the foodstuffs which typically contain high levels of glyphosate.”

– Erin Brockovich

This is particularly important when you want your sweet potatoes to turn crispy when baked. Starch can make the surface of sweet potatoes sticky, and removing it through soaking ensures that they crisp up nicely in the oven. 

So, the next time you prepare sweet potato fries or wedges, remember that soaking is the secret to achieving that delightful crunch.

Also Read:

• Do I Have To Boil Sweet Potatoes Before Baking?
• Is It Better To Boil Or Bake Sweet Potatoes For Casserole?
• How Do You Make Patti Labelle Sweet Potatoes?
• How To Bake A Sweet Potato In A Toaster Oven?

How Long Should I Soak Them?

The ideal soaking time for sweet potatoes is usually around 30 minutes. During this time, the excess starch on the surface of the sweet potatoes will begin to dissolve into the water.

You might even notice the water becoming slightly cloudy, indicating that the starch is coming out. 

While 30 minutes is a good rule of thumb, you can adjust the soaking time based on your preference and the specific recipe.

If you’re in a hurry, a shorter soak will still provide some benefits, but sticking to the 30-minute mark is a solid choice for the crispest results.

Can I Skip Soaking Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, you can skip soaking sweet potatoes before baking, especially if you need more time or are not aiming for an extra crispy texture. While soaking does enhance crispiness, it’s not a mandatory step. 

Your sweet potatoes will still be delicious when baked without soaking, with their natural sweet and earthy flavor intact.

Does Soaking Affect The Flavor?

Soaking sweet potatoes before baking primarily affects their texture rather than their flavor. It doesn’t make your sweet potatoes taste different or bland.

You’ll still get that delightful, sweet, earthy flavor that makes sweet potatoes a beloved ingredient. 

“Soaking sweet potatoes before baking is like giving them a refreshing pre-show dip before they step into the spotlight of your oven – it’s all about that extra crispiness and texture that makes them shine!”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

So, whether you choose to soak them or not, rest assured that the delicious taste of sweet potatoes will shine through in your dishes.

It’s about achieving the desired texture, with the flavor remaining true to this beautiful root vegetable.

Is It Necessary For All Sweet Potato Dishes?

Soaking sweet potatoes before baking is most beneficial when you want a crispy texture, such as when making roasted sweet potato wedges, fries, or any preparation where a crispy exterior is desired.

However, it’s not necessary for all sweet potato dishes. 

For recipes like casseroles [2], soups, or mashes where the texture isn’t crucial, you can skip the soaking step without sacrificing flavor.

The decision to soak or not should align with the specific outcome you want to achieve in your dish, so feel free to adjust based on your culinary goals and preferences.

FAQs

Key Takeaways

Soaking sweet potatoes before baking is a simple yet effective technique to achieve a crispy and delightful texture in your dishes. 

This step helps remove excess starch from the surface of the sweet potatoes, preventing them from becoming sticky and allowing them to crisp up beautifully in the oven. 

While soaking isn’t mandatory for all sweet potato recipes, it’s a valuable trick to remember, especially when aiming for that perfect crunch in dishes like roasted sweet potato fries or wedges. 

So, whether you choose to soak or not, understanding its purpose empowers you to create sweet potato dishes that suit your preferences.

References:

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/281438
2. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/249/main-dish/casseroles/