Old-Fashioned Grated Sweet Potato Pudding
A true Southern classic. This is no diet dish; it's both very rich and very sweet. Even though it's sweet enough to be a dessert, it's meant to be a side dish to compliment a saltier main dish such as baked ham.
A true Southern classic. This is no diet dish; it's both very rich and very sweet. Even though it's sweet enough to be a dessert, it's meant to be a side dish to compliment a saltier main dish such as baked ham.
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar packed
- nonstick cooking spray
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 pound sweet potatoes (2 large or 3 small); peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons cornmeal
- Carbohydrate 47.5392025014725 g
- Cholesterol 1305.49625002597 mg
- Fat 33.4211870303304 g
- Fiber 1.94075263792606 g
- Protein 18.5952294023019 g
- Saturated Fat 13.3997420827114 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (215g)
- Sodium 103.037350449049 mg
- Sugar 45.5984498635464 g
- Trans Fat 1.49868458828014 g
- Calories 564 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
- Coat a 9x6x3-inch casserole with cooking spray.
- Finely chop sweet potatoes to the texture of large rice in several batches in a food processor, pulsing the machine on and off (or finely grate by hand).
- Combine sweet potatoes, brown sugars, salt, ginger, and cornmeal in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in egg, egg yolks, cream, and vanilla.
- Transfer to casserole.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Stir from outside to middle.
- Bake 10 minutes longer; stir again.
- Bake until lightly browned and just set, about 15 to 25 minutes longer (for a total of about 40 to 50 minutes).
- Serve hot or at room temperature, plain or topped with cream.
Old-Fashioned Grated Sweet Potato Pudding: A Southern Comfort Food Classic
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious, comforting meals can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes offer the greatest rewards. This Old-Fashioned Grated Sweet Potato Pudding is one of those recipes. It’s a true Southern classic, a dish passed down through generations, carrying with it the warmth of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of spices on a chilly evening.
This isn’t your average sweet potato side dish. It's rich, decadent, and intensely flavorful. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, making it a delightful accompaniment to savory main courses like roasted meats or ham. But honestly? I've been known to sneak a second serving just because it's so delicious. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, savor each bite, and appreciate the simple joys of home-cooked food. The texture is wonderfully unique, the grated sweet potatoes providing a pleasant contrast to the creamy custard-like base.
The preparation itself is surprisingly straightforward. While it involves a few steps, nothing is overly complicated. The most time-consuming part is grating the sweet potatoes – but even that can be sped up with a food processor. I typically prep the ingredients the night before, making the baking process a breeze on a busy weekday evening. It’s a recipe that embraces imperfection; a slightly uneven browning only adds to its rustic charm.
I've adapted this recipe over the years, tweaking it to suit my preferences and the availability of ingredients. Sometimes, I use a mix of light and dark brown sugar for a deeper, more complex flavor. Other times, I’ll add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth. But the core ingredients remain the same – the beautiful sweet potatoes, the comforting spices, and the rich, creamy custard.
This isn't just a side dish; it's a celebration of simple ingredients and Southern hospitality. It’s a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the little things, and to savor the moments shared around a table filled with loved ones and the aroma of home-cooked goodness. This sweet potato pudding is more than just food; it's an experience.
Serving Suggestions:
The beauty of this pudding is its versatility. It shines alongside roasted meats, baked ham, or even hearty poultry dishes. It also makes a wonderful addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. Serve it warm, allowing the delightful aromas to fill the room. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a touch of elegance and extra decadence, if desired.
Making it your own:
Feel free to experiment with different spices to personalize this recipe to your liking. A pinch of cardamom, a dash of allspice, or a hint of cloves could add unique depth of flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the amount of brown sugar used. For a gluten-free option, ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Old-Fashioned Grated Sweet Potato Pudding is a must-try. It’s a recipe that’s both easy and impressive, sure to become a family favorite for years to come. It's a taste of tradition, a hug in a bowl, and a reminder of the simple joys of home-style cooking.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with Southern comfort and sweet potato bliss. Your family and friends will thank you for it!
