Sweet Potatoes And Apricots
Sweet potatoes and apricots combine in a flavorful baked dish with warm spices, raisins, and sherry, perfect for a comforting and slightly sweet side or vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut sweet potatoes lengthwise and place in a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle lightly with a little salt.
- Drain apricots, reserving the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup if necessary to make 1 cup of liquid and set aside.
- Arrange apricot halves over the sweet potatoes in the dish.
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
- Cook and stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Stir in sherry and orange peel, then pour the mixture over the potatoes and fruit.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes, basting occasionally, until well glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a caramelized finish, consider broiling the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking. If you don't have dry sherry, white wine or apple juice can be suitable substitutes. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or adding a drizzle of honey. To enhance flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest along with the sherry.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a delightful side for roasted meats or a vegetarian main course. It pairs beautifully with Limeade Or Lemonade for a refreshing contrast. For added texture, serve alongside a crunchy salad like Fish House Slaw, or complement it with a creamy dish like Chef Fred'S 3-Bean Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potatoes And Apricots contains roughly 1065 calories, with 6g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2151mg per serving (94% 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 fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sweet potatoes. Simply peel, chop, and boil them until tender before following the rest of the recipe as usual. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the pieces to ensure they are soft enough for baking.
Is there a vegan alternative for the sherry?
Absolutely! You can replace dry sherry with a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of water or use a non-alcoholic white wine. This will maintain the dish's flavor profile while keeping it vegan.
What can I serve this dish with?
Sweet Potatoes And Apricots make a great accompaniment to roasted chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside stuffed bell peppers or a quinoa salad. It also pairs well with spiced dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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).