Cider Sweet Potatoes

Cider Sweet Potatoes Recipe - A Delicious American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Cider Sweet Potatoes is a delicious and unique side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tangy flavor of apple cider. This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday meals, and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The combination of sweet potatoes and cider is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for generations. Sweet potatoes are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tartness of apple cider. This recipe puts a modern twist on a traditional dish, making it a favorite for both home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Ingredients

6 or 7 sweet potatoes
1 cup of applesauce
2 tbsp of butter (nothing else)
0.67 cup of maple syrup
0.5 tsp of cinnamon
boiling water
salt

How to prepare

Boil the potatoes over medium heat until tender, approximately 25 – 30 minutes (you could microwave them if you prefer). Once the potatoes are cooled, peel and cut them into one-inch slices.
Arrange the potato slices in a greased 9x13 baking dish or pan.
In a saucepan, combine the cider, maple syrup, butter, and cinnamon.
Boil the mixture over high heat until it becomes syrupy and reduces by 0.67, which should take about 15 minutes.
Pour the syrupy mixture over the potatoes.
Bake the dish at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes.
Uncover the dish and baste the potatoes frequently until the juices bubble, which should take about 10 minutes longer.
Add salt to taste.

Variations

For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary to the syrup mixture.
Substitute honey or brown sugar for the maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the sweet potatoes until they are tender but not mushy. Overcooking the potatoes can result in a soggy dish.

- Basting the potatoes frequently while baking helps to ensure that they are evenly coated in the delicious cider syrup.

- For a caramelized finish, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking to brown the top of the potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Cider Sweet Potatoes are the perfect side dish for roasted turkey, ham, or pork. They also pair well with roasted vegetables and a green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the sweet potatoes before baking helps to ensure that they are tender and fully cooked. Basting the potatoes while baking helps to infuse them with the delicious cider syrup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have apple cider, you can substitute apple juice or apple cider vinegar. You can also use honey or brown sugar instead of maple syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sweet potatoes and syrup mixture ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, simply assemble the dish and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Cider Sweet Potatoes in a decorative baking dish or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairing Recommendations

Cider Sweet Potatoes pair well with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian dishes. They also complement a variety of side dishes such as green beans, Brussels sprouts, or cranberry sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cider Sweet Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cider Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cider Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cider Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cider Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. This dish is also rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Cider Sweet Potatoes are a nutritious and delicious side dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Summary

Cider Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday meals. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, this dish is sure to become a new favorite at your table.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cider Sweet Potatoes. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1960s, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. We were catching up over cups of tea when Margaret suddenly pulled out a tattered recipe card from her recipe box.

"Have you ever tried Cider Sweet Potatoes, dear?" Margaret asked with a twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, intrigued by the sound of the dish. Margaret explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She went on to describe how the sweet potatoes were cooked in a mixture of apple cider, brown sugar, and warm spices, creating a dish that was both sweet and savory.

As Margaret read out the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the delicious flavors in my mind. I knew I had to try making them myself. Margaret kindly copied down the recipe for me, and I left her house that day with a new culinary adventure ahead of me.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients for the Cider Sweet Potatoes. I peeled and sliced the sweet potatoes, simmered them in the cider mixture, and let them cook until they were tender and caramelized. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As I took my first bite of the Cider Sweet Potatoes, I was transported back to Margaret's kitchen, surrounded by warmth and friendship. The dish was everything I had hoped for and more – the sweet potatoes were perfectly cooked and infused with the flavors of apple cider and spices. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Cider Sweet Potatoes for countless family gatherings and dinner parties. Each time, the dish is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and think back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen, where I first discovered this beloved recipe.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. I tried using different types of sweet potatoes, adjusting the spices, and even incorporating other ingredients like nuts and dried fruits. Each iteration was delicious in its own way, but the original recipe remained my favorite.

One of my fondest memories involving the Cider Sweet Potatoes was at a Thanksgiving dinner many years ago. My entire family was gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating the feast ahead. When I brought out the dish of Cider Sweet Potatoes, there was a collective gasp of delight. The sweet aroma filled the room, and everyone dug in with gusto.

As we enjoyed our meal, I watched with pride as my loved ones savored every bite of the Cider Sweet Potatoes. The dish had brought us all together in a moment of shared joy and gratitude. It was a reminder of the power of food to create memories and forge connections between people.

To this day, the recipe for Cider Sweet Potatoes holds a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of friendship, tradition, and the simple pleasures of good food. I am grateful to Margaret for sharing the recipe with me all those years ago, and I look forward to passing it down to future generations. As I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that the legacy of this beloved dish will live on for years to come.