At Amor Cooking, the holidays are all about gathering around the table and sharing dishes that bring warmth and comfort. One of our seasonal favorites is Puré de Batata (Sweet Potato Purée) — creamy, spiced, and topped with a nutty crunch that makes it irresistible. In many Latin American households, this dish is a must-have for Christmas dinner, but it’s so delicious you’ll want to enjoy it year-round.
Ingredients
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3 sweet potatoes (2 large + 1 small), peeled and washed
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4 tablespoons brown sugar
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2 tablespoons cinnamon (plus a pinch extra while mashing)
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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1 tablespoon “funky spice” (or substitute with nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or your favorite warm spice blend)
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2 cups pecans
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3 tablespoons almond flour (or coconut flour)
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½ stick unsalted butter (about 4 tablespoons)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled sweet potatoes into an Instant Pot (or a large pot on the stove). Add water just below the halfway mark. Cook for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft. If using a traditional pot, simmer until fork-tender.
Step 2: Mash to Perfection
Once cooked, carefully release the steam and transfer the hot potatoes to a mixing bowl. Using a masher or spatula, mash until smooth and creamy. For extra ease, you can also use a food processor. While mashing, add a pinch of cinnamon for depth.
Step 3: Flavor the Purée
Mix in the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, funky spice, and butter until fully incorporated. The butter will melt into the warm potatoes, giving the purée a silky texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine pecans with almond flour (or coconut flour). This creates a slightly crunchy, nutty topping that balances the sweetness of the purée.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the purée into a baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the pecan mixture on top. Bake until the topping is golden brown and aromatic, about 20–25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially turkey, ham, or pork tenderloin. It’s also a wonderful vegetarian side for any holiday spread. Serve warm, directly from the oven, and watch it disappear from the table.
✨ Chef’s Tip: For a festive twist, drizzle a touch of maple syrup over the pecan topping before baking.