Sweet potatoes—those gorgeous, orange gems of the earth—have always held a curious place in my heart. They’re like nature’s candy, bursting with a rich sweetness that’s just begging to be mashed into creamy perfection. With the world going wild over pumpkin spice lattes and all things autumnal, why not give sweet potatoes their well-deserved spotlight?
Steps
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut 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 as they cook.
- 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 can be easily pierced with a fork.
- After boiling, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to the potatoes.
- Use a potato masher to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and all ingredients are well combined.
- Taste the mashed sweet potatoes and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with additional butter and fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- Butter
- Milk (any type, unsweetened)
- Maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
FAQ
- Can I make mashed sweet potatoes ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare mashed sweet potatoes in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a covered baking dish at 350°F before serving.
- How can I freeze mashed sweet potatoes?
- To freeze mashed sweet potatoes, first let them cool to room temperature. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven.
- What variations can I try with this mashed sweet potato recipe?
- For a sweeter taste, omit the thyme and sprinkle cinnamon on top. For a more savory version, reduce the maple syrup and add 2 grated garlic cloves. For extra richness, incorporate 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sour cream. You can also enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like minced rosemary or parsley.
- What type of milk works best in this recipe?
- Any unsweetened milk, whether dairy or non-dairy, can be used. Almond milk and whole milk are great options, but feel free to use your preferred type.
- How do I ensure the sweet potatoes are cooked properly before mashing?
- Boil the sweet potatoes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, which typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. This ensures they are soft enough to mash smoothly.
Tips
- For a creamier texture, use a potato masher to blend the sweet potatoes with butter, milk, and maple syrup until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving for the best flavor.
- Enhance the savory aspect by reducing the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons and incorporating 2 grated garlic cloves for a delicious twist.
- To achieve a richer taste, consider folding in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sour cream. This addition will give the mash a delightful tanginess.
- When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a microwave or a covered baking dish in a 350°F oven.
Equipment
- Potato Masher – If you don’t already have one, a potato masher is essential for achieving the desired texture of mashed sweet potatoes.
