Sweet potatoes are like the unsung heroes of the root vegetable world, you know? They’re humble yet oh-so-versatile, carrying that sweet, earthy flavor that just begs to be mashed into creamy goodness. When I think about cozy dinners, especially as the leaves start turning, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of these velvety mashed sweet potatoes to make everything feel right—even if just for a moment.
Steps
- Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring the water is about an inch above the potatoes. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water to season the potatoes during cooking.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cook the sweet potatoes for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add in butter, milk, maple syrup, salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Use a potato masher to blend everything until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Taste the mashed sweet potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed. Transfer them to a serving dish and, if desired, garnish with additional butter and fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- Butter
- Milk (unsweetened, either dairy or non-dairy, such as almond milk or whole milk)
- Maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, several grinds
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
FAQ
- Can I prepare mashed sweet potatoes in advance?
- Yes, these mashed sweet potatoes can be made ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered baking dish in a 350°F oven before serving.
- How can I adjust the sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes?
- To enhance the sweetness, omit the thyme and sprinkle some cinnamon on top. For a more savory taste, reduce the maple syrup to two tablespoons and add two grated garlic cloves.
- What is the best way to freeze mashed sweet potatoes?
- Allow the mashed sweet potatoes to cool to room temperature, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or oven.
- What can I use as a garnish for mashed sweet potatoes?
- Fresh thyme leaves add an earthy flavor, but you can also try topping with additional butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley for variety.
- Is it necessary to use a specific type of milk in this recipe?
- No specific type of milk is required. You can use any unsweetened dairy or non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or whole milk, depending on your preference.
Tips
- To enhance the savory flavor of your mashed sweet potatoes, consider reducing the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons and adding two grated garlic cloves for an aromatic touch.
- For a richer texture, incorporate 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sour cream into the mash to elevate the creaminess of the dish.
- If you’re aiming for a sweeter variation, omit the thyme and add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a warm, sweet finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, and reheat them in the microwave or a 350°F oven for best results.
Equipment
- Large Pot: Essential for boiling the sweet potatoes.
- Potato Masher: Needed for mashing the boiled sweet potatoes smoothly.
- Peeler: Useful for peeling the sweet potatoes before cooking.
- Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients like salt and maple syrup.
