Sticky Maple Sweet Potato Stacks with Garlic & Almond Butter

Introduction

There’s something truly special about sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness combined with a hearty texture makes them a favorite in our household. Recently, I experimented with a new recipe that has quickly become a family favorite: Sticky Maple Sweet Potato Stacks with Garlic & Almond Butter. This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delicious stand-alone snack. The crispy edges and tender interior create a satisfying contrast that my family can’t resist. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these sweet potato stacks are always a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 4 tbsp maple syrup
• 40g butter
• 25g crushed almonds
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 sprigs of fresh thyme

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to gas mark 6 or 180 degrees C.

Slice Sweet Potatoes

2. Cut the sweet potatoes widthways into thin slices, approximately 0.5 cm thick. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking.

Stack Sweet Potatoes

3. In a muffin tray, stack 6-7 slices of sweet potato in each muffin cup. This creates a beautiful stack that will cook evenly.

Make Maple Butter Mixture

4. In a saucepan or skillet over low to medium heat, combine the butter, minced garlic, crushed almonds, and fresh thyme. Stir the mixture until the butter melts and begins to bubble, infusing the flavors together.

Drizzle Maple Butter

5. Using a spoon, drizzle the maple butter mixture generously over each sweet potato stack, ensuring that each layer gets a taste of the delicious garlic and almond butter.

Bake

6. Place the muffin tray in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The sweet potato stacks are ready when the edges are crispy and the insides are tender and buttery.

Serve and Enjoy

7. Once baked, allow to cool slightly before removing from the tray. Enjoy your delicious Sticky Maple Sweet Potato Stacks with Garlic & Almond Butter!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Perfect with roasted meats or grilled chicken.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them as finger food at gatherings.
• Garnish: Top with additional crushed almonds or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for an elegant touch.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
2. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper for heat or cinnamon for extra warmth.
3. Make Ahead: You can prep the sweet potatoes and maple butter mixture ahead of time and assemble before baking.
4. Use Different Nuts: Swap crushed almonds for walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
5. Serve Hot: These stacks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and omit the garlic for a more subtle flavor.
• Cheesy Stacks: Add shredded cheese between some of the sweet potato slices before drizzling the maple butter.
• Herb Variations: Use different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a hearty dinner.
• Complement with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These sweet potato stacks can be frozen after baking. To reheat, place them in the oven at 180 degrees C until warmed through and crispy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

• Yes, while sweet potatoes work best for this recipe, you can experiment with regular potatoes.

1. Can I make these stacks without a muffin tray?

• If you don’t have a muffin tray, you can use a baking dish. Just be sure to stack them tightly.

1. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

• The edges should be crispy and the center should be tender. A fork should easily pierce the sweet potatoes.

1. Can I prepare these in advance?

• Yes, you can slice the sweet potatoes and make the butter mixture ahead of time, then assemble before baking.

1. What can I substitute for maple syrup?

• Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

1. Are these stacks gluten-free?

• Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

1. What can I serve with these stacks?

• They pair well with proteins like chicken or fish, or can be enjoyed on their own as a snack.

1. Can I add vegetables to the stacks?

• Yes, thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition.

1. What type of thyme should I use?

• Fresh thyme is recommended, but dried thyme can be used if fresh is unavailable. Just reduce the amount by half.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Conclusion

Sticky Maple Sweet Potato Stacks with Garlic & Almond Butter are a delightful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. With their crispy texture and rich flavors, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to enjoy a comforting side dish at home, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy these stacks hot out of the oven, and don’t forget to experiment with different flavors and variations to make it your own.

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