Maple-Orange Mashed Sweet Potatoes

(from Stears Farm newsletter, September 29 2008)

A slightly unusal cooking method yields the best texture, with just the right amount of sweetness.  Adapted from cooksillustrated.com.

4 Tbs unsalted butter, cut into 4 pieces

2 Tbs heavy cream

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp sugar (optional)

2 lbs sweet potatoes (about 3 medium), peeled

pinch black pepper

2 Tbs maple syrup

1/2 tsp grated orange zest

Quarter sweet potatoes lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices.  Combine butter, cream, salt, sugar and sweet potatoes in a large saucepan and cook, covered, over low heat, sitring occasionally, until potatoes fall apart when pierced with a fork - about 35-45 minutes.  Remove from heat and mash by hand using a potato masher if you like a chunkier mash, or transfer to a food processor and process to smooth puree.  Stir in pepper, maple syrup, and orange zest.  Serve immediately.