Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Cumin

The smoky flavor of ground cumin provides flavor surprise to this vegetable classic.

Yield: Makes 8 to 10 servings

Ingredients

• 4  sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 1/2 pounds)
• 2  medium-size purple onions, coarsely chopped
• 1/2  cup  butter or margarine, cubed
• 1  teaspoon  salt
• 1/2  teaspoon  ground red pepper
• 2  tablespoons  maple syrup
• 1  tablespoon  lemon juice
• 1  teaspoon  ground cinnamon
• 1  teaspoon  ground cumin
• 1/2  cup  chopped pecans, toasted

Preparation

Combine first 3 ingredients in a lightly greased 11- x 7-inch or shallow 2-quart baking dish; sprinkle with salt and red pepper.

Bake, covered, at 375° for 40 to 45 minutes or until potato is tender. Remove from oven. Add syrup and next 3 ingredients; mash, leaving a few lumps. Sprinkle with pecans.

NOTE: To make ahead, cover and chill after baking. Remove from refrigerator; let stand 30 minutes. Bake at 375º for 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated.