Maui Sweet Potato Bake

Maui Sweet Potato Bake Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Hawaii

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Maui Sweet Potato Bake is a delicious and tropical twist on a classic sweet potato dish. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the tangy flavor of pineapple. The addition of fresh parsley and a dash of hot sauce adds a unique depth of flavor to this dish.

History

This recipe is inspired by the flavors of Maui, Hawaii, where sweet potatoes are a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. The combination of sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and pineapple is a popular flavor profile in Hawaiian cuisine, and this dish brings those flavors together in a new and exciting way.

Ingredients

4 lb (1.81 kg) cooked sweet potatoes, about 5 large ones, skinned
1 can (14 oz (397 g)) coconut milk (regular or light)
1.5 tsp salt
1.5 tsp white pepper
0.5 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
0.25 cup chopped fresh coriander or parsley
1 lime, finely grated peel
1 dash hot sauce
0.25 cup shredded coconut

How to prepare

Mash the potatoes in a large bowl until they are almost smooth.
Stir in the coconut milk and seasonings, and continue mashing until the mixture is smooth.
Stir in the next 4 ingredients, and test for seasoning. Then, transfer the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inches baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle coconut over the top of the mixture.
Bake the dish in the center of a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 30 – 35 minutes.
Broil the dish until the top turns golden, which should take about 3 or 4 minutes.

Variations

For a sweeter version of this dish, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture before baking.
To add a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or granola over the top of the dish before baking.
For a savory twist, you can add cooked bacon or ham to the sweet potato mixture before baking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well before adding it to the sweet potato mixture to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your personal taste preferences. You can add more for a spicier dish or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

- For a creamier texture, you can use a hand mixer or immersion blender to mash the sweet potatoes and coconut milk together.

Serving Suggestions

Maui Sweet Potato Bake is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also enjoy this dish on its own as a light and flavorful vegetarian option.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Maui Sweet Potato Bake is to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. This can be done by hand using a potato masher or with a hand mixer for a smoother texture. Be sure to mix the sweet potatoes and coconut milk together thoroughly to ensure a consistent and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have coconut milk on hand, you can substitute regular milk or a dairy-free alternative, such as almond or soy milk.

- Instead of crushed pineapple, you can use fresh pineapple chunks or pineapple tidbits. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the sweet potato mixture.

- If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute dried parsley or another fresh herb, such as cilantro or basil.

Make Ahead Tips

Maui Sweet Potato Bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

To add a decorative touch to this dish, sprinkle additional shredded coconut and chopped parsley over the top before serving. You can also garnish each serving with a slice of fresh pineapple or a sprig of fresh herbs for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Maui Sweet Potato Bake pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including grilled chicken, fish, or pork. For a complete meal, serve this dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy this dish on its own as a light and satisfying vegetarian option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Maui Sweet Potato Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Maui Sweet Potato Bake contains approximately 250 calories. This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy and satisfying side dish option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Maui Sweet Potato Bake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Sweet potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady source of energy and help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of Maui Sweet Potato Bake contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The coconut milk in this recipe adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, while also providing healthy fats that are essential for overall health.

Proteins

Each serving of Maui Sweet Potato Bake contains approximately 2 grams of protein. While this dish is not a significant source of protein, you can easily increase the protein content by serving it alongside a protein-rich main dish, such as grilled chicken or fish.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help to support a strong immune system, healthy skin, and proper digestion.

Alergens

This recipe contains coconut milk and shredded coconut, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing this dish.

Summary

Maui Sweet Potato Bake is a nutritious and flavorful side dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is relatively low in calories and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced and healthy diet.

Summary

Maui Sweet Potato Bake is a delicious and nutritious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the tropical flavor of pineapple. This dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Enjoy this dish as a light and flavorful addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory. It was many years ago, during a trip to Maui with my dear friend, Lillian. We had decided to explore the island and immerse ourselves in the local culture, which included trying out the delicious Hawaiian cuisine.

One evening, we stumbled upon a quaint little restaurant tucked away in a small village. The aroma of freshly baked sweet potatoes wafted through the air, enticing us to step inside. The owner, a warm and welcoming woman named Auntie Leilani, greeted us with a smile and recommended we try her famous Maui Sweet Potato Bake.

As we took our first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The creamy sweet potatoes were perfectly balanced with hints of coconut and cinnamon, creating a delectable dish that was both comforting and exotic at the same time.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Auntie Leilani graciously shared her recipe with me, passing down generations of culinary wisdom in a single piece of paper. I cherished that recipe like a precious heirloom, knowing that it held the key to recreating the magic of that unforgettable evening in Maui.

Back home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and setting to work in my kitchen. The smell of sweet potatoes roasting in the oven filled the air, bringing back memories of that magical night with Lillian and Auntie Leilani. As I mixed in the coconut milk and sprinkled cinnamon on top, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me.

When the Maui Sweet Potato Bake emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew I had succeeded in capturing the essence of Hawaiian cuisine in my own home. I couldn't wait to share this dish with my family and friends, passing on the tradition of Auntie Leilani's recipe to the next generation.

Over the years, I have continued to make Maui Sweet Potato Bake for special occasions and gatherings, each time evoking memories of that fateful night in Maui. The recipe has become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a symbol of the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life.

As I look back on that moment of discovery, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous encounter that led me to Auntie Leilani's doorstep. Her recipe has not only brought joy and delight to those who have tasted it, but has also served as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and create lasting memories.

And so, as I prepare to pass on this recipe to my grandchildren, I do so with a heart full of love and gratitude for the journey that brought me to this moment. I hope that they, too, will cherish the story behind Maui Sweet Potato Bake and carry on the tradition of sharing its magic with those they hold dear.