MSG Free Sweet Potato Mash
Sweet potato mash sounds simple, but getting it truly silky and flavorful takes a little technique — and this version absolutely delivers. The trick of drying the potatoes over low heat before mashing means you're not diluting all that natural sweetness, and warming the butter and milk together before adding them keeps the mash luxuriously smooth rather than gluey. A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the whole thing in a way that's subtle but makes a real difference, while fresh thyme adds an herby, slightly earthy note that feels a little more grown-up than your average holiday side. Every ingredient here is whole and straightforward, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or worry about hidden flavor enhancers sneaking in. Store-bought seasoning blends and packaged mash products are notorious for containing additives that can be hard to avoid, making a from-scratch approach like this one genuinely worth the extra few minutes. Finish it with a scatter of fresh parsley if you have it on hand, and serve it straight from the pot while it's still steaming.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for the cooking water
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by at least 1 inch. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are completely tender and a fork slides through without resistance, about 15–18 minutes.
- 2
Drain the sweet potatoes through a colander, then return them to the empty pot. Set the pot over low heat for 1–2 minutes, shaking occasionally, until any surface moisture has evaporated and the potatoes look dry.
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