Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

I have an excruciating headache that started yesterday and has managed to hold tight despite water, acupuncture pins, massage, hot shower, rest, and as a last resort, ibprofen. However, I love this song so much I still have the volume turned up. It's one of those tunes that gives me chills. I heard it the other day on kexp of course.

Dancer by Fairchild

Maybe you'll like it too. And maybe...just maybe, you'll like this sweet potato recipe as well. I got it from a friend and adapted it to my taste. Feel free to do the same. But just so ya know, I've never had any complaints and people are always happy to take any leftovers home, so you might want to try my version first before you go altering the ego.

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 C pure maple syrup, divided
1/4 C extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
2 T balsamic vinegar

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F

In a large bowl add sweet potatoes, 2 T of the maple syrup, 2 T of the olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix to evenly coat the potatoes and arrange in a single layer on a sheet tray. Roast until caramelized, golden brown and soft. This will take 20-30 min. Be sure to check them after 15 min and stir.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the remaining 2 T of olive oil and the sliced shallots and saute until they start to caramelize. This will take about 5 min. Add the remaining 2 T maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Lower heat and cook until golden brown and caramelized, about 5 more min. Add water, 1 T at a time if the pan becomes dry. It should be a sticky sauce to mix with the potatoes.

Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the caramelized shallots. Salt and pepper to taste (I don't ever add more) and transfer to a serving dish.

It's a pretty amazing concoction if I say so myself. And I do. I admit when I don't like something I've made, and I brag when I love it. It's official. I'm bragging.