There is something inherently comforting about starting the day with a hearty breakfast that isn’t just delicious but also packs a nutritional punch. The Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey Bacon is one such recipe that has quickly become a beloved staple in my household. As a food blogger, I am always on the lookout for dishes that not only satisfy the taste buds but also promote health and well-being. This recipe does exactly that. When I first presented it to my family, the vibrant colors of the sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and turkey bacon created quite a visual appeal. As we sat around the breakfast table, the enticing aroma filled the kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful family meal. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness from the potatoes and the savory, smoky flavor of turkey bacon, which left everyone asking for seconds. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a ritual that brings joy and warmth to our mornings.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey Bacon, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 slices of turkey bacon
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Cooking this Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey Bacon is straightforward and can be done in just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a perfect result:
- Begin by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon slices and cook them until crispy. This should take about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Once cooled, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Next, add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the sweet potatoes are well-coated with the spices.
- Cover the skillet and allow the sweet potatoes to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the bell peppers have softened.
- Finally, stir in the chopped turkey bacon and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Each serving contains about 250 calories. It’s a nutritious way to start your day, providing a good balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this recipe is relatively short, making it perfect for busy mornings. You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 25 minutes for cooking, bringing the total time to 35 minutes.
How to Serve
Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey Bacon can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences:
- As a standalone dish: It’s filling and complete on its own, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch dish.
- With eggs: Top it with a poached or fried egg for added protein and flavor.
- With toast: Serve alongside a slice of whole-grain toast to soak up the delicious juices.
- As a side dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- In a wrap: Roll it up in a tortilla for a grab-and-go meal that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you make the best Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey Bacon:
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size.
- Uniform size for even cooking: When dicing the sweet potatoes, try to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjusting the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the cayenne pepper. If you like it spicier, add a pinch more.
- Make ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
- Get creative: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to the hash for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon. Just be mindful that regular bacon may add more grease to the dish, so you might want to drain some of it before adding the vegetables.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
A: The recipe as it stands is not vegetarian due to the turkey bacon. However, you can omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This hash freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?
A: If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A: Certainly! Adding cheese can enhance the flavor. Consider sprinkling some shredded cheddar or feta on top just before serving for a delicious twist.
