Sweet Potato Noodles Recipe [Paleo, Whole30]

One of the favorite recipes from cooking class is zoodles, zucchini noodles.  Since the kids are so fond of them I decided to experiment with “spoodles,” sweet potato noodles.  Not glass noodles, or anything purchased pre-made, but spiralized sweet potatoes… and the kids LOVED it!  Of course, they also just love to say “spoodles”…. next they asked if we could make “coodles” (carrot noodles) and I suggested “poodles” (parsnip noodles) which really got the kids laughing.

How to Make Sweet Potato Noodles

You will need a spiral vegetable slicer to make veggie noodles. There are various types. You may be able to get an attachment to your KitchenAid. I have a manual, countertop spiralizer. 

• Handheld Spiralizers: These compact spiralizers are handheld and typically come with a single blade attachment. They are ideal for occasional use and are easy to store in small kitchens. Handheld spiralizers are generally affordable and great for making quick veggie noodles, but they may require more effort to use than countertop models.
• Countertop Spiralizers: Countertop spiralizers are larger devices that typically suction to your kitchen countertop for stability. They often come with multiple blade attachments, allowing you to create noodles of different thicknesses and shapes. Countertop spiralizers are more versatile and efficient than handheld models, making them suitable for regular use and larger quantities of vegetables.
• Electric Spiralizers: Electric spiralizers operate with the push of a button, automating the spiralizing process. They are convenient for those who prefer a hands-free experience or have limited dexterity. Electric spiralizers often come with multiple blades and can handle a variety of vegetables with ease. However, they tend to be more expensive than manual spiralizers and may take up more counter space.

Making sweet potato noodles with a spiralizer is a simple and fun process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

1. Choose the Right Sweet Potato: Opt for a large sweet potato that is firm and straight. This will make it easier to spiralize.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potato: Wash the sweet potato thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Peel the sweet potato if desired, although leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and texture.
3. Trim the Ends: Use a sharp knife to trim off both ends of the sweet potato, creating flat surfaces for stability during spiralizing.
4. Set Up the Spiralizer: Place your spiralizer on a clean, flat surface. Most spiralizers come with different blade attachments for creating different types of noodles. Choose the blade that will create the thickness of noodles you desire. For sweet potato noodles, a medium blade works well.
5. Secure the Sweet Potato: Insert one end of the sweet potato onto the prongs of the spiralizer and push it firmly against the blade end. Make sure the sweet potato is centered and straight.
6. Start Spiralizing: With one hand, turn the handle of the spiralizer clockwise, while using your other hand to gently press the sweet potato towards the blade. As you turn the handle, the sweet potato will begin to spiralize into noodles. Continue to spiralize until you reach the end of the sweet potato, using a consistent, steady motion.
7. Separate the Noodles: Once you’ve spiralized the entire sweet potato, you may have a long strand of noodles. Use kitchen scissors or a knife to cut the noodles into more manageable lengths, if desired.
8. Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Noodles: Your sweet potato noodles are now ready to be cooked and enjoyed in your favorite recipes! They can be used in stir-fries, salads, soups, or even enjoyed on their own as a nutritious side dish.
9. Storage: If you have any leftover sweet potato noodles, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before freezing to preserve their texture.

That’s it! With a spiralizer and a little bit of effort, you can easily create delicious and nutritious vegetable noodles to incorporate into your meals. 

Cooking Process for Sweet Potato Noodles

Using a large skillet over medium-high heat with some avocado oil, olive oil, or sesame oil, we tossed our spoodles in with garlic and red pepper flakes along with a splash of water to create steam and in little time the kids were plating their dish.

We created this new recipe in cooking class to keep it simple for the first time. The kids are encouraged to learn how to make something, then make it their own.  Here are some ways you can make it next time: using fresh ingredients, like fresh ginger or green onions, adding depth of flavor with roasted red peppers or shiitake mushrooms, or turning it into a classic Korean dish. 

Boiling of the noodles is not necessary.  

All of the delicious recipes made with Freedom Kitchen Kids are paleo recipes and whole30, using only wholesome ingredients.