Hawaiian Sweet Potato Recipe is a delicious and colorful side dish inspired by Hawaiian flavors. These sweet potatoes are soft, tender and lightly sweet.
Cooking them with a touch of coconut milk and brown sugar gives a tropical taste. Making this dish at home is simple and fun. It’s perfect for family meals, gatherings, or a cozy dinner.
The sweet, creamy potatoes pair beautifully with many main dishes. This Hawaiian Sweet Potato Recipe is an easy way to bring a taste of the islands to your table.
My Experience With This Recipe
I tried the Hawaiian Sweet Potato Recipe last weekend and it was amazing. The sweet potatoes were soft and naturally sweet.
The coconut milk added a creamy, tropical flavor. My family loved the hint of brown sugar and a touch of cinnamon. The dish smelled wonderful while cooking.
It was easy to prepare and looked beautiful on the plate. Everyone asked for seconds. I will definitely make this recipe again because it’s simple, delicious, and comforting.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Hawaiian Sweet Potato
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Hawaiian / American
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Medium pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Serving bowl
Ingredients You Need for Hawaiian Sweet Potato
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking. - Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Place sweet potatoes in a pot with water. Boil until tender, about 15–20 minutes. - Drain the Water
Drain sweet potatoes in a colander. Return to the pot while still hot. - Add Coconut Milk
Pour coconut milk over the potatoes. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly. - Add Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the sweet potatoes are well mixed. - Add Butter
Melt butter into the mixture. Stir for a creamy, smooth texture. - Optional Vanilla
Add vanilla extract for a richer flavor. Stir gently to combine. - Serve Warm
Transfer sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Recipe Tips
- Cut potatoes evenly for even cooking.
- Use fresh coconut milk for best flavor.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking sweet potatoes.
- Adjust sugar depending on your sweetness preference.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Sweet Potato pairs well with grilled chicken, fish or pork. Serve warm with a tropical salad for a full island-style meal.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or shredded coconut for extra flavor. It’s a perfect side for holiday dinners or casual family meals.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Grilled pineapple chicken
- Teriyaki salmon
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed white rice
- Tropical fruit salad
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Reheat gently in a pot over low heat or microwave until warm.
- Add a splash of coconut milk when reheating for extra creaminess.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the potatoes firm.
- Sweet potatoes can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
Hawaiian Sweet Potato Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking.
Boil the Sweet Potatoes
- Place sweet potatoes in a pot with water. Boil until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Drain the Water
- Drain sweet potatoes in a colander. Return to the pot while still hot.
Add Coconut Milk
- Pour coconut milk over the potatoes. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
Add Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
- Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the sweet potatoes are well mixed.
Add Butter
- Melt butter into the mixture. Stir for a creamy, smooth texture.
Optional Vanilla
- Add vanilla extract for a richer flavor. Stir gently to combine.
Serve Warm
- Transfer sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Notes
- Cut potatoes evenly for even cooking.
- Use fresh coconut milk for best flavor.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking sweet potatoes.
- Adjust sugar depending on your sweetness preference.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
FAQs about Hawaiian Sweet Potato
Q1: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but fresh potatoes have better flavor and texture. Drain and rinse canned potatoes before use.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter or skip butter. Coconut milk keeps it creamy and delicious.
Q3: Can I add other spices?
Yes, nutmeg, ginger, or allspice works well. Add small amounts to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
Q4: How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar or skip vanilla. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes is enough for flavor.
Q5: Can I roast instead of boil?
Yes, toss diced potatoes with coconut milk and sugar. Roast at 400°F for 25 minutes, stirring halfway.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Sweet Potato Recipe is simple, tropical and full of flavor. Soft sweet potatoes combined with coconut milk and spices make a perfect side dish.
It is easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the table. Serve with grilled meats or tropical salads for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal.
This dish is delicious, healthy, and sure to impress your family and friends. Try it today for a taste of the islands at home.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
