Sweet Potato Ambrosia Recipe from USA with Pineapple and Coconut

Sweet Potato Ambrosia

Sweet Potato Ambrosia Recipe from USA with Pineapple and Coconut
Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sweet Potato Ambrosia
Sweet Potato Ambrosia

Sweet Potato Ambrosia is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tropical flavors of pineapple, citrus, and coconut. This recipe is perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.

History

Ambrosia is a traditional Southern dish that typically consists of fruit, coconut, and sometimes marshmallows. This version of Ambrosia with sweet potatoes adds a unique twist to the classic recipe, creating a dish that is both sweet and savory.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Thinly slice the lemon, orange, and sweet potatoes.
  2. Alternate layers of potatoes, orange, and lemon.
  3. Combine pineapple, sugar, butter, and salt. Pour the mixture over the potatoes.
  4. If desired, sprinkle coconut on top.
  5. Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Variations

  • Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Swap out the citrus fruits for apples or pears for a different flavor profile.
  • Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the sweet potatoes thinly to ensure even cooking.

- Layering the sweet potatoes with the citrus fruits helps infuse the dish with bright, tangy flavors.

- Adding coconut on top adds a delicious crunch and extra sweetness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potato Ambrosia is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a dessert. It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a topping for vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the Sweet Potato Ambrosia in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and the sweet potatoes to become tender. Be sure to check for doneness by piercing the sweet potatoes with a fork.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh citrus fruits on hand, you can use canned mandarin oranges or canned pineapple chunks instead. You can also use canned sweet potatoes if you're short on time.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Sweet Potato Ambrosia ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. This dish also reheats well, so you can make it in advance and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Sweet Potato Ambrosia in a decorative baking dish or individual ramekins for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Sweet Potato Ambrosia pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted turkey, ham, or pork. It also complements savory dishes like grilled salmon or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Sweet Potato Ambrosia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sweet Potato Ambrosia contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sweet Potato Ambrosia contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sweet Potato Ambrosia contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Sweet Potato Ambrosia contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. The citrus fruits in this dish also provide a boost of vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and tree nuts (coconut). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Sweet Potato Ambrosia is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Sweet Potato Ambrosia is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with tropical fruits and coconut. This recipe is perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, and can be customized with different fruits and nuts to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish as a side or dessert for a memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Sweet Potato Ambrosia. It was a warm summer day, just like any other, and I was wandering through the local farmer's market. As I was perusing the stalls filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, a kind old woman approached me with a basket of sweet potatoes in hand.

"Would you like to try a sample of my Sweet Potato Ambrosia?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but I couldn't resist the offer. As soon as I took a bite, I was transported to another world. The flavors of the sweet potatoes, coconut, and pineapple melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was truly divine.

I begged the old woman for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She told me that she had learned to make Sweet Potato Ambrosia from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was in awe of the history and tradition behind this simple yet delicious dish.

As soon as I got home, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making Sweet Potato Ambrosia. I gathered all the ingredients - sweet potatoes, coconut, pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans - and set to work in the kitchen. The aroma of roasting sweet potatoes filled the air, and I knew I was on the right track.

After a few hours of careful preparation, the Sweet Potato Ambrosia was finally ready. I scooped a generous portion onto a plate and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, just as they had when I first tried the dish at the farmer's market. I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, Sweet Potato Ambrosia became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any other occasion that called for a delicious and comforting dish. Each time I served it, I would think back to that warm summer day at the farmer's market, and the kind old woman who had introduced me to this culinary treasure.

Over the years, I have continued to tweak and perfect the recipe for Sweet Potato Ambrosia. I have added my own twist by incorporating cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and spicy kick. I have also experimented with different types of nuts and dried fruits to add extra layers of flavor and texture.

But no matter how many variations I try, the original recipe for Sweet Potato Ambrosia will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.

I am grateful to that kind old woman at the farmer's market for introducing me to Sweet Potato Ambrosia. Her recipe has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, and I will continue to make it for years to come, passing it down to future generations in the same way it was passed down to me.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day, a warm feeling of contentment washes over me. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow as a cook, and for the delicious dishes that have enriched my life in more ways than I can count. Sweet Potato Ambrosia will always have a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that can be found in a simple recipe passed down through the ages.

Categories

| American Recipes | Coconut Recipes | Dessert Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Sweet Potato Recipes |

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