Sweet potato puree - American specific

Sweet Potato Mash – A Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4

The history of sweet potato mash is fascinating and rich in tradition, with deep roots in American cuisine. This dish is often associated with holidays like Thanksgiving, where it graces festive tables as a delicious side for roasts, but it can be enjoyed anytime due to its sweet flavor and creamy texture.

Ingredients:
- 5 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 package (about 113 g) softened butter
- 4 triangles of cream cheese (make sure to take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before use)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the sweet potatoes: Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities. Gently dry them with a paper towel. Use a fork to poke holes in several places, allowing steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.

2. Baking the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 195 degrees Celsius. Wrap the sweet potatoes in aluminum foil and place them in a baking dish. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until soft to the touch. An alternative method is to use a microwave; the potatoes can be cooked for 15 minutes on the baked potato setting. After removing them from the microwave, leave them wrapped in foil for 5 minutes to finish cooking.

3. Cleaning and preparing the mash: Once the sweet potatoes have cooled enough to handle, peel them. Use a potato masher or a blender to turn them into a smooth and creamy mash.

4. Adding the ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, add the sweet potato mash, softened butter, cream cheese, brown sugar, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger). Mix well until the butter and cheese are completely melted, and all ingredients are combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

5. Serving: Sweet potato mash is best served warm, alongside roasts, meatballs, or stuffed turkey. You can garnish it with some toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- You can add a splash of milk or cream for an even creamier mash.
- If you like a stronger flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cayenne pepper.
- Instead of cream cheese, you can use goat cheese or cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
- Cook more sweet potatoes and use the leftover mash to make cakes or pancakes.

Nutritional benefits:
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which contributes to eye health, and vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. They are also high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. This sweet potato mash recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, with about 200 calories per serving, depending on the exact quantities used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen sweet potatoes? It is recommended to use fresh sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make this mash vegan? Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and the cream cheese with a vegan alternative.
- Can I prepare the mash in advance? Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving.

Possible variations:
- Add some diced apples or pears for a fruity note.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or cumin, for a unique flavor.

This sweet potato mash is more than just a side dish; it’s a way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your meals. I hope this recipe inspires you to try it and savor every bite! Enjoy!