When it comes to healthy snacks, purple sweet potatoes are definitely a favorite for many people. Their beautiful color, naturally sweet flavor, and soft texture make them irresistible. On top of that, purple sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants that are great for your health. There are plenty of ways to enjoy purple sweet potatoes, roasted, steamed, baked into cakes, or turned into sweet porridge. But the simplest and most classic way is by boiling them. It may sound easy, but if done incorrectly, the results can be disappointing: too hard on the inside, too mushy, or even bitter. 

How to Boil Purple Sweet Potatoes 

To make sure you get it right every time, here’s the proper way to boil purple sweet potatoes so they turn out perfectly cooked, tender, and naturally sweet.

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

The first key is in choosing the potatoes. Look for ones with smooth skin, no rotten spots, and that feel firm to the touch. If they feel too soft, they’re usually no longer fresh. Size also matters, medium-sized sweet potatoes are ideal because they cook evenly and don’t fall apart easily.

2. Wash Thoroughly

Since sweet potatoes often still have soil on them, make sure you wash them thoroughly. If needed, use a small brush to clean the skin. This step is especially important if you plan to eat them with the skin on.

3. Cut or Leave Whole

You can boil purple sweet potatoes whole or cut into pieces. Cutting them shortens the cooking time, but don’t slice them too small or they’ll break apart easily. Medium-sized chunks are best, especially if you’re planning to use them in desserts.

4. Boiling Process

Place the sweet potatoes in a pot and add enough water to fully submerge them. Boil over medium heat so they cook evenly. The process usually takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on their size. 

The easiest way to check doneness is by piercing them with a fork or knife. If they feel tender and slide through easily, they’re ready to be taken out. 

Serving Boiled Purple Sweet Potatoes 

Boiled purple sweet potatoes taste delicious on their own, especially when eaten warm. But if you’d like to get creative, you can take them further, add them into coconut milk desserts, porridge, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls. For a creamier option, turn them into purple sweet potato pudding with coconut milk or its alternatives. 

Health Benefits of Boiled Purple Sweet Potatoes 

Aside from being tasty, boiled purple sweet potatoes offer plenty of health benefits. Their fiber supports better digestion and helps you stay full longer, making them perfect for anyone on a diet. Their natural antioxidants are great for your skin and immune system. Plus, they’re lower in calories compared to flour-based snacks or fried foods. 

Read more: Simple Purple Sweet Potato Dishes You Can Try at Home

Make Purple Sweet Potato Dishes Creamier with FiberCreme 

Now that you know how to boil purple sweet potatoes so they come out soft, sweet, and perfectly cooked, it’s time to get creative and turn this simple snack into something extra special. 

If you usually use coconut milk, try switching to FiberCreme. This versatile creamer is high in fiber, low in sugar, and contains 0 mg cholesterol. It still gives you that creamy, rich taste but in a healthier way. Perfect for purple sweet potato porridge, desserts, or other creamy dishes. 

Find more creamy and healthy recipe inspiration on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV or on Ellenka’s YouTube channel!