Purple Sweet Potato Recipe

Vibrant, naturally sweet, and packed with nutrients, purple sweet potatoes are a delicious and eye-catching twist on a classic favorite! Their rich, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory seasonings, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether roasted, mashed, or air-fried to crispy perfection, these stunning potatoes bring a pop of color to your plate.

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What are Purple Sweet Potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich, naturally vibrant variety of sweet potatoes with a deep purple flesh. They have a slightly denser, drier texture than orange sweet potatoes and a subtly sweet, earthy flavor. Do they cook differently? Not really, they are similar to most potatoes.

Common Types of Purple Sweet Potatoes:

• Okinawan Sweet Potatoes – Originating from Japan but popular in Hawaii, these have a tan skin and a deep purple interior.
• Stokes Purple® Sweet Potatoes – With a vibrant purple skin and flesh, these are grown in the U.S. and have a mildly sweet, nutty taste.
• Ube – Though sometimes confused with purple sweet potatoes, ube is actually a yam and is commonly used in Filipino desserts.

Where They Get Their Purple Color

The sweet potatoes contain Anthocyanins that give it the purple pigment that’s also found in blackberries, blueberries, and red cabbage. A study published in The Journal of Nutrition talks a lot about their benefits.

Where To Find Them

Purple sweet potatoes can be a bit harder to find than their orange counterparts, but they’re becoming more widely available. Here are the best places to look:

• Major grocery stores and many large supermarket chains carry purple sweet potatoes, especially in the fall and winter. Check the organic or specialty produce section. Stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, and Wegmans often stock them.
• Local farmers markets may have fresh purple sweet potatoes, especially in areas with diverse or specialty crops. Ask vendors if they carry them or if they can source them for you.
• Stores specializing in Japanese, Filipino, or Hawaiian cuisine often carry Okinawan sweet potatoes or ube, which are similar in color but slightly different in texture and flavor.
• Check Asian grocery stores.
• Health Food Stores: Natural food stores and co-ops that focus on organic and non-GMO produce often stock Stokes Purple sweet potatoes or other varieties.

Call ahead before visiting, it’s a good idea to contact the market or vendor to confirm the availability.

Can You Eat the Skin? Do You Have to Peel Them

Yes, you can eat the skin. You don’t have to peel them if you don’t want for something like roasted potatoes or fries.

What Do They Taste Like

They have a rich nutty flavor and super creamy texture. I find these don’t need much salt, as typically necessary for russet potatoes.

How to Store Them

Store the potatoes in a cool, dry place. They will usually need to be eaten within 1-2 weeks.

How to Air Fry Them

Air fry them on 400 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until soft.

How to Bake Them

These usually take longer to bake than standard sweet potatoes. You will usually need longer than an hour, maybe an hour and half depending on size. Bake on 400 degrees.

How to Boil Them

To boil, place the sweet potatoes in a pot with enough water to cover the sweet potatoes. Bring the water to a boil on medium-high heat. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until they are soft. 

Ways to Cook and Use Them

Mashed
Roasted (sliced into cubes or circle rings)
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Healthy Sweet Potato Pie
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Topping Ideas

• Butter and Sea Salt – A simple classic that enhances the natural sweetness.
• Garlic and Herb Butter – Infuses rich, savory flavors into every bite.
• Greek Yogurt and Chives – A tangy, protein-packed alternative to sour cream.
• Crumbled Feta and Honey – A salty-sweet combo that adds depth of flavor.
• Avocado and Everything Bagel Seasoning – Creamy with a little crunch and seasoning kick.
• Crispy Bacon and Cheddar Cheese – A hearty, indulgent option.
• Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions – Adds an earthy bite.
• Cinnamon and Maple Syrup – A cozy, classic flavor pairing.
• Almond Butter and Sliced Bananas – Creamy, nutty, and naturally sweet.
• Honey and Crushed Pecans – Adds crunch and natural sweetness.
• Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt – A decadent yet balanced treat.
• Marshmallows and Cinnamon Sugar – A fun, dessert-like option.
• Vanilla Greek Yogurt and Granola – A crunchy, creamy combo.
• Berries and Whipped Cream – Fresh, light, and naturally sweet.

More Potato and Side Dish Recipes

Air Fryer French Fries
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar
Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Ranch Potatoes
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Garlic
Watch step by step video instructions here on Youtube.