This dish will become a staple around your family table. This is our family's favorite way to make mashed sweet potatoes because it's so quick, easy, and delicious.
In the realm of comfort food, few dishes hold as much appeal as creamy, velvety mashed potatoes. But what if we told you there's a way to elevate this beloved side dish even further? Say hello to the Best and Easiest Mashed Sweet Potatoes – a delightful twist on a traditional food that brings a touch of sweetness and a vibrant hue to your dining table.
As the seasons change and cooler weather sets in, there's something truly comforting about indulging in a bowl of these mashed sweet potatoes. With their natural sweetness and smooth texture, they effortlessly marry the flavors of fall and winter, offering a side dish that's as versatile as it is delicious.
This recipe is so quick, easy, and delicious that it will instantly become a family staple. Now I can let you in on the secret of why these sweet potatoes are so delicious and easy..... they are boiled in milk!
The Magic of Milk:
Boiling sweet potatoes in milk might sound unconventional, but it's a technique that can enhance the flavor and texture of the sweet potatoes over water. The milk adds a creamy richness that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, resulting in a dish that's both indulgent and nourishing. Additionally, the milk helps infuse the potatoes with extra moisture, making the mash even smoother and more luscious.
Another reason we love this dish is because we don't add much sugar: only 3 tablespoons to enhance their natural sweetness. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, which contributes to healthy skin, immune function, and overall well-being. Plus, their natural sweetness makes them a great alternative to traditional white potatoes for those looking to reduce their refined carbohydrate intake.
The Best and Easiest Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
3 lbs of sweet potatoes (peeled and chopped into 2-inch cubes)
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
3 tablespoons of butter
1½ cups of milk + might need an extra splash (we use 2% but you can experiment with other types)
1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of nutmeg or cinnamon whichever you prefer (we prefer nutmeg)
salt and pepper
Directions
Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture. (I keep the potatoes covered in water until I'm ready to cook them to prevent browning)
Place the sweet potato cubes in a different pot (or just drain our the water) and add the milk. The milk should just about cover the bottom of the pot. ( I use a 6 qt stockpot)
Add a pinch of salt to the pot. The salt will enhance the flavors of the sweet potatoes and the milk.
Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid but leave a crack. Let the sweet potatoes cook until they're tender. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
As the sweet potatoes cook, stir occasionally with a long spoon so they don't burn. By the time the potatoes are tender, almost all the milk should have evaporated. Only about 2 tablespoons of milk should be left in the pot.
If at the end of cooking time, you have extra milk, you can drain off some excess or cook off the excess milk, as I do.
Turn off the heat
Add butter, vanilla, and brown sugar. Start mashing the sweet potatoes with a hand mixer on medium-high speed for 3 mins or until the potatoes are light, and fluffy until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Add nutmeg or cinnamon. Give it a final mix and taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want it sweeter you can add 1 additional tablespoon of sugar
Mashed sweet potatoes boiled in milk offer a winning combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition. This simple cooking method can turn an everyday dish into a gourmet experience, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Whether you're a fan of traditional flavors or love experimenting with new culinary techniques, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and indulge in the best and easiest sweet potatoes. Your taste buds will thank you!
Tell us in the comments what's your favorite way to eat sweet potatoes.
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