Smoky Maple Sweet Potato Puree

Recipe and Photo by Lisa Riznikove

Everyone will be asking for the recipe for this crazy delicious yet fast and easy Thanksgiving side dish. The addition of natural wood smoke takes these maple sweet potatoes from a sweet side to mouthwateringly savory. They effortlessly elevate turkey and are the perfect compliment to rich game meats like goose and duck breast. Although you'll look like a top chef serving this sophisticated puree it has only 4 ingredients and it's a snap to prepare so you can concentrate on the main event. 

Sugar Bob's Smoked Maple Syrup is the secret ingredient that makes this dish so delicious and easy. They start with the highest quality maple syrup and add natural wood smoke, nothing else. The taste is intensely smokey with a touch of maple sweetness. You can also add a dash to your bourbon for a Smoky Manhattan while you're cooking.

Ingredients:

3-4 large Sweet Potatoes 

1 stick Butter or Butter Alternative.

1 tablespoon Smoked Maple Syrup

Salt & Pepper

Directions:

1. Cut sweet potatoes into 2 inch chunks. For a smoother puree you can peel the potatoes however the peel contains much of the nutrients and I find that it is not noticeable once blended.

2. Place potatoes in a sauce pan, cover with water and boil until soft enough for a fork to be easily inserted.

3. Put sweet potatoes and 1/4 cup of the boiling liquid in a blender.

4. Add 1/2 stick of butter and blend on high speed.  Add more butter in 1 tablespoon increments until the puree is smooth but still thick. 

5. Add 1 tablespoon Sugar Bob's Smoked Maple Syrup a few pinches of salt and a small grind of pepper, blend until well combined.

6. Taste and adjust seasonings according to taste.

7. At this point you can serve immediately or put in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat gently before serving.

8. The dish looks very festive with pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top, or you could top with fried sage leaves or an extra drizzle of the smoked maple syrup. Be cautious with the smoked maple syrup, a little goes a long way.