Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and pierced several times with a fork-just trust me on this one
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika-the magic ingredient here, amigos!
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional-but very welcome for that extra kick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs-rosemary or thyme work amazingly-well, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)

Note: If you don't have any smoked paprika, you could use regular paprika, though the flavor won't be as deep. You might also try adding liquid smoke-a few drops-but use sparingly, because it can be overpowering! I once overdid it, and let me just say my sweet potatoes were like a campfire from within. yikes.

Directions:

1. Fire up your grill to a medium temperature. If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure you have a nice bed of coals glowing. I am talking those orange embers, not just smoky wisps of gray.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, if using, salt, and pepper. It's ok if this step feels a bit like a science experiment; it's a delicious one.
3. Toss sweet potatoes in spice mixture, coating. I like to get my hands dirty here-nothing beats a good hands-on approach. But if you're a bit of a germaphobe, tongs will work just fine.
4. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred on the outside, flipping occasionally. A fork should slide in easily.
5. If using fresh herbs, sprinkle over sweet potatoes in the last few minutes of grilling. You are going to want to smell that wonderful freshness and aroma.
6. Take the sweet potatoes off of the grill and let cool for a minute or two before serving. Great still warm, but watch those charred bits-they can be super hot!

Conclusion: Sweet, Smoky, and Simply Delicious!

These smoked sweet potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. They're unbelievably easy to make, yet they taste incredibly sophisticated. Serve them as a side dish with your favorite protein-they pair perfectly with grilled chicken, tofu, or even a hearty lentil stew. Or, keep it simple and enjoy them on their own. They're that good. What do you say? Fire up those coals and get grilling! Let me know how yours turn out, and any creative twists you add. Happy grilling! P.S. Don't forget the marshmallows!