How to cook Cuban sweet potatoes?

To cook Cuban sweet potatoes, also known as boniato, start by peeling and cubing them into even pieces. Toss with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Roast at 425°F for about 30–35 minutes until golden and fork-tender. You can also pan-fry or air fry them for a crispier version. This method works beautifully in any traditional Cuban sweet potato recipe.

What do Cubans call sweet potatoes?

In Cuban cuisine, sweet potatoes are typically called boniato. Boniato is a starchy, white-fleshed root vegetable that looks similar to a regular sweet potato but tastes milder and less sugary. It’s used widely in Cuban, Caribbean, and Latin American dishes.

Is Cuban sweet potato healthy?

Yes, boniato is considered a healthy alternative to other starches. It has fewer natural sugars than orange sweet potatoes, a lower glycemic index, and offers fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. This makes a Cuban sweet potato recipe a wholesome option for anyone looking to add more nutrient-dense sides to their meals.

What is the difference between a sweet potato and a boniato?

While both are root vegetables, boniato (used in Cuban recipes) has white flesh and a drier, starchier texture. Regular sweet potatoes are orange inside and taste much sweeter. Boniato holds its shape better when cooked, making it ideal for savory dishes like this Cuban sweet potato recipe.

Cuban Sweet Potato Recipe – 5-Star Flavor in 1 Simple Dish

Ingredients

2 boniato sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Instructions

Peel the boniato and cut into 1-inch cubes
Toss with olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, and lime juice
Spread on baking sheet in single layer
Roast at 425°F for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway
Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lime

Notes

You can substitute boniato with Japanese sweet potatoes if needed
For air fryer version, cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes
Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Cuban
Diet: Gluten Free