We all have something, a tradition, a scent, a favorite food, a movie, an article of clothing or something else that makes us feel nostalgic. Nothing is more comforting to me than the sight and smell of a sweet potato casserole around the holidays. I make it other times of the year but when fall rolls around, it’s my favorite dish to make and serve to guests.
I have a brown casserole dish I use to bake and serve my casserole . It reminds me of a vacation I took to Portugal years ago, because the dish was made in Portugal although I bought it a few miles away from my home at a local shop.
Some people argue a sweet potato casserole is more of a dessert, while my family eats it as a side dish with the main course. There are several variations: with nuts, cranberries, pineapple, or plain and simple with a sugary, marshmallow topping. I am sharing my favorite recipe and would love to hear how you make yours.
There is nothing better than starting a tradition. My kids, although now adults, still enjoy the sights and smells of the holidays. If you didn’t grow up with any particular customs of your own, start now. It can bring you comfort in an otherwise hectic life.
Here is one of my favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
- One can of sweet potatoes (I like the sugary kind!)
- ½ to 1 cup light brown sugar (to taste)
- ¼ softened butter
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts, almonds or pecans
- ½ cup cranberries
- ½ tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp. nutmeg
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- Bag of small marshmallows
Mix:
Combine above ingredients and pour into a prepared baking dish. Heat at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Add marshmallows on top and brown until golden. Serve hot (but perfect at room temp sitting atop the buffet table).
Happy Thanksgiving!
Diane