Sweet Potato Prep
The journey begins with the sweet potatoes. To start, select your sweet potatoes. Wash and scrub them, then slice them into rounds of approximately ¼ inch
thickness. A consistent thickness ensures even cooking, which is crucial for achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture. Once sliced, arrange the sweet potato rounds on a baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Next, season them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. The roasting process is key; the oven temperature should be set to allow them to roast until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes, but the exact time may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the slices. Keep an eye on the potatoes, flipping them halfway through to promote even browning.
Chipotle Sauce Magic
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s time to whip up the chipotle sauce, the heart of this dish's flavor. In a small bowl, combine the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist), a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The chipotle peppers provide a smoky heat, while the lime juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the sauce. The sour cream or yogurt offers a creamy base, ensuring the sauce clings perfectly to each sweet potato stack. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chipotle peppers for extra heat or a touch more lime for acidity. Blend all ingredients with a spoon or fork until you get a smooth texture. The consistency of the sauce should be thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled but thin enough to spread easily.
Stacking & Serving
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and the chipotle sauce is ready, it's time to assemble the stacks. Take the roasted sweet potato rounds and arrange them on a serving plate. You can layer them individually or create small stacks of three to four rounds per person. Drizzle the chipotle sauce generously over the sweet potato rounds. Garnish the stacks with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese or a drizzle of extra olive oil. The final presentation should be appealing, showing off the caramelized sweet potatoes and the creamy, vibrant sauce. Serve immediately, while the sweet potatoes are still warm and the flavors are at their peak. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh.
