Imagine a side dish so decadent and luxurious that it transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into a culinary masterpiece. Our Brown Butter Sweet Potato Mash is not just a recipe; it's a flavor revelation that will elevate your dining experience from mundane to extraordinary. With the nutty richness of brown butter and a hint of warmth from optional cinnamon, this dish promises to be the star of your meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches in size. This will help them cook evenly.
- Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
- Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- While the sweet potatoes are cooking, prepare the brown butter. In a small saucepan, add the unsalted butter and place it over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely.
- Continue to cook the butter, stirring frequently, until it begins to foam and turn a golden brown color. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once it reaches a nutty aroma and a rich brown color, remove it from the heat.
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. This will help any excess moisture evaporate.
- Add the brown butter to the sweet potatoes, along with the milk or cream. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the sweet potatoes until they reach your desired consistency.
- Season the mash with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add the optional cinnamon for a warm, sweet flavor. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the brown butter sweet potato mash to a serving dish. Optionally, you can drizzle a little extra brown butter on top for added flavor and garnish.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own!
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Select sweet potatoes that are firm and free of bruises for the best texture and flavor.
- Brown butter technique: Watch your butter carefully when browning. The line between perfectly nutty brown butter and burnt butter is thin. Remove from heat as soon as it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
- Consistency matters: For a smoother mash, use a potato ricer or hand mixer. For a more rustic texture, use a traditional potato masher.
- Temperature tip: Serve immediately while the mash is warm to enjoy its creamy, luxurious texture.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and gently reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Flavor variations: Experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
