## Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A Creamy, Savory Side Dish
## Why Make This Recipe
Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a perfect side dish that blends the sweet, earthy flavor of sweet potatoes with the deep, warm notes of roasted garlic. This dish is a versatile companion to various proteins and offers a hearty serving of vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin C from the sweet potatoes, and notable beneficial compounds from the garlic.
## How to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
### Ingredients:
– 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 whole garlic bulb
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
### Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Cut the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes.
3. Boil a large pot of water, add sweet potatoes and cook until tender.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes and add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Squeeze out the roasted garlic and add it to the potatoes.
5. Use a masher or an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley if preferred.
## How to Serve Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Serve these delightful Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes warm as a side dish to complement meats, poultry, or fish. They also pair excellently with roasted vegetables and salads. A final drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley can add a vibrant touch that also enhances flavor.
## How to Store Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Store leftover Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra milk or butter if necessary to revive the creamy texture.
## Tips to Make Roasted Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Make sure to roast the garlic until it’s deeply golden and fragrant for the fullest flavor. When mashing, adjust the consistency with extra milk or butter if needed to ensure a creamy and smooth result.
## Variations
If you prefer, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of sour cream for additional richness.
## FAQs
**Q: Can I use another type of milk in this recipe?**
A: Absolutely! You can use any type of milk you like, or even substitute it with a non-dairy milk or cream for a vegan version.
**Q: What if I don’t have fresh garlic?**
A: If fresh garlic is not available, you can substitute it with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove in the recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as rich and deep as that offered by the fresh, roasted version.
**Q: Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?**
A: Yes, yams can be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes, but there may be some slight differences in taste and texture. Yams are usually a bit sweeter and more moist than sweet potatoes.