Sweet Potato Soufflés Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings:

• 2 orange-fleshed sweet potatoes
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons butter, at room temperature
• cup milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 4 fried sage leaves

Directions

Step 1: Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Prick them with the tip of a knife. Microwave for about 10 minutes or until they are very soft. Let them cool briefly until they are safe to handle.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Halve the sweet potatoes and scoop the flesh into a bowl.

Step 3: Separate the egg whites and yolks into two separate mixing bowls. Generously butter four 5-ounce ramekins.

Step 4: Transfer 1 cup of mashed sweet potato to the bowl with the egg yolks. Add the milk, then season with salt and cayenne pepper. Whisk the mixture slowly at first, then faster once it begins to come together until smooth.

Step 5: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites. Beat with a clean whisk until soft peaks form, but still remain slightly soft.

Step 6: Transfer half of the beaten egg whites into the sweet potato mixture. Gently fold them in using a spatula until most of the white streaks disappear.

Step 7: Add the remaining egg whites and fold them in very gently. Turn the bowl as you fold, scraping down the sides until the whites are mostly incorporated. A few streaks of white should still be visible.

Step 8: Spoon the sweet potato mixture into the prepared ramekins. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the souffls are fully inflated and browned.

Step 9: Garnish the souffls with fried sage leaves. Serve them directly in the ramekins or unmold them before serving.

Chef's Notes

Sometimes, even red-skinned sweet potatoes arent necessarily orange inside; you can scrape the skin to check. If you prefer, you can roast the sweet potatoes in the oven at 375F (190C) instead of microwaving them. I kept this recipe simple, but you can customize it with cheese, bacon, or fresh herbs. If you'd like to make this a dessert, try adding warm spices like cinnamon, along with maple syrup or brown sugar to the mashed sweet potatoes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 9g

Nutrition Breakdown

Per Serving	Amount	% Daily Value
Total Fat	7g	9%
Saturated Fat	3g	16%
Cholesterol	193mg	64%
Sodium	649mg	28%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	11%
Dietary Fiber	4g	15%
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	9g	18%
Vitamin C	4mg	4%
Calcium	91mg	7%
Iron	2mg	10%
Potassium	572mg	12%

Origin and History
The souffl is a classic French dish that dates back to the early 18th century. The name "souffl" comes from the French verb souffler, which means "to blow" or "to puff," referring to the dish's light and airy texture. While the souffl was originally made from egg whites and flavoring agents like cheese or chocolate, over time, it has evolved into various versions, including the sweet potato souffl. This variation became popular in the Southern United States, particularly in the context of holiday meals like Thanksgiving, where sweet potatoes are a staple. The dish combines the rich, earthy flavor of sweet potatoes with the delicate fluffiness of a souffl, creating a comforting yet sophisticated side dish.

Regional Variations
In the United States, the sweet potato souffl is often associated with Southern cuisine. Sweet potatoes are a key crop in this region, and they are featured prominently in many traditional dishes. What sets the Southern version apart is the use of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, as well as the occasional addition of marshmallows or brown sugar, which add a sweet contrast to the natural flavor of the potatoes. Some variations also incorporate savory elements, such as herbs and spices, which are seen in Chef John's Sweet Potato Souffls recipe. In other regions, the dish might be lighter or sweeter, depending on local tastes.

Differences from Similar Dishes
The sweet potato souffl stands out from other potato-based dishes due to its fluffy, airy texture. Unlike mashed sweet potatoes or sweet potato casserole, which tend to be dense and creamy, a souffl relies on whipped egg whites to give it a light, puffy structure. This technique is what makes souffls both delicate and sophisticated, offering a contrast to the heavier, more comforting potato dishes commonly served during festive occasions. Additionally, while many sweet potato recipes lean heavily on sweetness, the souffl can be easily adjusted to be either sweet or savory, offering versatility for different palates.

Where to Serve Sweet Potato Souffls
Sweet potato souffls are commonly served at festive meals, especially during the holidays. In the United States, they are a popular addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, often accompanying roast meats like turkey and ham. The dish is also a fantastic option for brunch gatherings or as a side at a cozy dinner. Depending on how it is flavored, it can function as either a savory side dish or a sweet dessert. The versatility of the souffl allows it to be adapted to different menus and occasions.

Interesting Facts
- Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. - The souffls airy texture is achieved through the careful folding of whipped egg whites, a technique that requires precision and practice. - Though the souffl was originally a French dish, variations of it exist in many culinary traditions around the world. The sweet potato souffl represents an American twist on a European classic, showcasing the creativity of Southern cooks. - In many Southern recipes, sweet potatoes are combined with marshmallows, a somewhat controversial but beloved topping. Chef Johns version, however, keeps it simple, focusing on the natural sweetness of the potatoes combined with the lightness of the souffl.

FAQ about Sweet Potato Soufflés Recipe

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