Sweet potatoes originated in Central America and made their way to Europe with Christopher Columbus when he returned after his first trip to the New World. Today, North Carolina, Mississippi and California
are leaders in sweet potato production in the United States. Since they are at peak season in November and December, many people think of the sweet potato only as a holiday food when in fact they are actually available all year long.
Sweet potatoes have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are helpful in maintaining a healthy digestive tract, and assist the body in regulating blood sugar levels. In addition to their numerous health benefits, sweet potatoes
taste great. Sweet potatoes can be baked or mashed and topped with butter, but a more memorable way to serve the delicious tubers is in a sweet potato casserole.
Since sweet potatoes have been a staple in America for decades, it is no wonder there are a plethora of casserole recipes that highlight the luscious vegetable. Sweet potatoes can be mashed with light cream or scalded milk, blended with
sugar or brown sugar and seasoned with nutmeg or cinnamon. Some people stir marshmallows into the casserole while others prefer to use marshmallows just on the top to finish the dish. Other chefs bypass the marshmallows altogether and
use pecans or walnuts in the casserole or as a topping instead. Sweet potato casseroles are a great complement to ham or turkey dinners and can turn a routine meal into a dinner fit for a holiday. |
