Get ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Herb Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onion is not just a side; it’s a culinary experience that will have your guests asking for seconds. Imagine creamy, buttery sweet potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of fresh thyme, perfectly complemented by the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner! Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into approximately 1-inch pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance flavor during boiling.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While the sweet potatoes are cooking, heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the cooked sweet potatoes in a colander, then return them to the pot. Add warm milk, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. Be careful not to overmix to maintain some texture.
- Gently fold in the caramelized onions, reserving a few for garnish if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, top with reserved caramelized onions, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for large, firm sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Look for those with smooth skin and no blemishes.
- Uniform Cutting: When cubing your sweet potatoes, aim for even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. This will help you achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
- Salt the Water: Adding a pinch of salt to the water while boiling the sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and flavor, making a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- Low and Slow for Onions: When caramelizing the onions, patience is key. Cook them over medium-low heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning. This slow cooking process allows the natural sugars to develop, resulting in beautifully caramelized onions.
- Warm Milk: For a creamier mash, warm the milk before adding it to the sweet potatoes. This helps to keep the mixture hot and makes it easier to blend smoothly.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier mash, mash the sweet potatoes just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture, so be gentle!
- Garnish for Flair: Reserve some of the caramelized onions for garnish. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor with every bite.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your mash before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure the flavors are just right for your palate.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 18mg
