Sweet Potato Puree’

SWEET POTATO PURÉE WITH SMOKED CHILI AND MAPLE SYRUP

You’ll need a steamer, a vegetable peeler and food processor to make this recipe. The dish can be made ahead and gently re-warmed in the oven, covered with foil.

Healthier Makeover by: Katy Sparks, vice president of culinary research and development for Great Performances, a New York catering and events company. (www.greatperformances.com)  

Ingredients:

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon whole coriander seeds

2 strips fresh orange peel

2/3 cup fat-free yogurt

1 teaspoon ground chipotle powder (chipotle are smoked jalapeños)

¼ cup maple syrup (dark, rich grade B if possible)

Grated fresh nutmeg, to taste

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 

Directions:

Steam the sweet potatoes over boiling water that has been seasoned with the bay leaf, sea salt, coriander seeds and orange peel.

Cook until sweet potatoes are very tender.

Place sweet potatoes in the bowl of your food processor, add the yogurt, chipotle powder and maple syrup and purée until smooth.

Season with the nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste.  

Traditional: 282 calories 
Healthier Makeover: (per 2/3-cup serving): 105 calories, 2 grams fat, 363 milligrams sodium, 23.6 grams carbohydrate, 2.2 grams protein, 1.9 grams dietary fiber 
Saving: 177 calories 
Serves: 6 to 8