Mock Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet, tender squash mimics candied yams with a natural sweetness enhanced by maple extract. Perfect as a comforting side dish for fall meals or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub the squash thoroughly.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- In a baking dish, mix water, maple extract, and sweetener if desired.
- Lay the squash halves, cut side down, in the liquid and bake until tender.
- Bake until the squash is soft enough for a fork to pierce through, which varies based on size.
- Remove from oven and let cool enough to handle.
- Use a tablespoon to scoop out the pulp from the skin.
- Discard the skin and mash the pulp well with a fork or electric mixer.
- Place 4 ounces of the mashed pulp in a serving dish.
- Dot with butter and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup to the liquid mixture. If you don't have maple extract, vanilla extract can be a nice substitute. Ensure the squash is fresh and firm for the best texture. Baking times may vary based on the size of the squash, so check for doneness frequently. This dish pairs well with E-Z Ham Glaze for a delightful holiday meal.
Serving Suggestions
This mock candied sweet potato dish is perfect as a side for roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal. Consider serving it alongside Winter'S Salad for a refreshing contrast. For added richness, sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts before serving. It also complements savory dishes wonderfully, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mashed squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk for creaminess if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 92 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with other sweet varieties like butternut or acorn squash. Each will impart its unique flavor, but the cooking method remains the same. Just ensure the squash is tender before mashing. Adjust the water and maple extract to taste, as different squashes may have varying sweetness levels.
How do I know when the squash is done baking?
The squash is done when it is soft enough to pierce easily with a fork. Baking times can vary, but typically, it may take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the squash. Keep an eye on it as it approaches the shorter time frame to prevent overcooking.
Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan if you omit the butter or replace it with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. The main ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great addition to vegan recipes during holiday feasts or everyday meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).