The Baked Sweet Potatoes with Crisco and Brown Sugar recipe harks back to an era when the simplicity of natural flavors was celebrated and elevated with a touch of culinary ingenuity. Sweet potatoes, a staple in many cultures, were often enjoyed in their purest form. However, this recipe adds an extra layer of flavor by pairing the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of Crisco and the warmth of brown sugar and cinnamon. As we explore this recipe, we’ll journey into the historical context of this dish, uncover the culinary practices of the past, and guide you through the process of creating these deliciously enhanced baked sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes have a rich history that dates back centuries, enjoyed in various forms across different cultures. Traditionally, they were a staple food due to their availability and nutritional value. As cooking methods evolved, so did the ways of enhancing their flavors. This recipe encapsulates the fusion of simplicity and culinary creativity that shaped many classic dishes.

INGREDIENTS

• 12 sweet potatoes
• 1 cup boiling water
• Brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Crisco (shortening)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Powdered cinnamon (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Peel the sweet potatoes and parboil them until they are partially cooked. This process helps soften them before baking.
2. Cut and Boil:
   • Cut the partially cooked sweet potatoes in halves.
   • Boil the sweet potato halves in water for about 10 minutes. This helps bring out their natural flavors and prepares them for baking.
3. Layer in Baking Dish:
   • Drain the boiled sweet potato halves and lay them in a greased baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer.
4. Enhance the Flavor:
   • Spread Crisco (shortening) over the sweet potato halves. This will add richness and moisture to the dish.
5. Add Sweetness and Spice:
   • Sprinkle brown sugar over the sweet potatoes. The sugar will add a delightful sweetness that complements their natural flavor.
   • Season the sweet potatoes with a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of pepper, and a touch of powdered cinnamon, if desired. The cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the dish.
6. Introduce Moisture:
   • Pour boiling water into the baking dish. The water will help create steam and keep the sweet potatoes tender while baking.
7. Bake and Baste:
   • Place the baking dish in an oven preheated to an appropriate temperature (around 350°F or 175°C).
   • Bake the sweet potatoes until they are fully tender. This may take about 30-40 minutes, depending on their size and the temperature of your oven.
   • Baste the sweet potatoes with the sauce that forms in the baking dish, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the sweet potatoes are tender and infused with the rich flavors of Crisco, brown sugar, and spices, they are ready to be served.
   • These baked sweet potatoes make a delightful side dish or a comforting addition to any meal.

NOTES:

• This recipe offers a glimpse into the culinary traditions of the past, where natural flavors were celebrated and enhanced through creative combinations of simple ingredients. The Baked Sweet Potatoes with Crisco and Brown Sugar embody the essence of comfort and nourishment, reflecting a time when resourcefulness and innovation were at the heart of every dish.