Sweet Potato Awareness Month: From Our Garden to Table

Sweet Potatoes are one of my favorite superfoods! From their fascinating history to tips on growing, storing, and cooking them to their incredible nutritional benefits, I've got you covered. So, prepare to fall head over heels for these delicious tubers that will take your taste buds on a sweet journey!

Did you know that sweet potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years? Originating in Central America, they quickly spread across the globe, becoming a staple in many cuisines. These versatile gems have stood the test of time and carved out a special place on our plates.

Growing Sweet Potatoes.

Whether you have a green thumb or are a newbie in the gardening world, growing your sweet potatoes is a rewarding experience. These plants thrive in warm climates and require well-drained soil. Planting them in late spring or early summer will allow you to enjoy a bountiful harvest come autumn. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and let's get digging!

Storing

Once you've harvested your sweet potatoes, the next step is storing them properly. Store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to keep their flavors intact. Avoid refrigerating them, as it could result in a loss of flavor and texture. Trust me, you want those sweet, creamy characteristics to shine through when you cook them into delicious meals!

Cooking

The culinary possibilities with sweet potatoes are truly endless. Roasted, mashed, fried, or baked into pies, these tuberous wonders add flavor and a healthy twist to any dish. Get creative and experiment with sweet potato fries, wedges, soups, and even desserts. The sky's the limit in the kitchen, so let your imagination run wild!

 Nutritional Facts

Sweet Potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals. Not only do they boost your immune system, but they also promote healthy digestion and contribute to overall well-being. 

So, sweet potatoes have covered you whether you want to add a colorful twist to your meals, boost your health, or just indulge in some scrumptious goodness. These fabulous tubers have captured hearts and palates worldwide, from ancient civilizations to modern-day food enthusiasts.

Sweet Potato Tartlet

This year, I was so excited about our sweet potato crops. I decided to make Sweet Potato Tartlets as an appetizer.

Ingredients
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 package (1.9 ounces) frozen miniature phyllo tart shells

15 miniature marshmallows
15 walnuts

 

Directions

1. Place sweet potato in a small saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Drain.

2. Mash sweet potato with butter, syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl.

3. Place 1 tablespoon of potato mixture in each tart shell. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Top with marshmallows. Bake at 350° for 8-12 minutes or until marshmallows are lightly browned. It yields about 15 tartlets.