sweet potato puree

from Ina's most recent cookbook comes this recipe for sweet potato puree.  i decided to try these potatoes for thanksgiving this year, and the recipe was delicious.  i use a vegetable steamer for most vegetables, but had not tried this technique for potatoes.  i must say that the sweet potatoes cooked perfectly without becoming mushy in boiling water.

to make the puree: cook the potatoes over simmering water for at least 25 minutes, stirring them to change their level in the steamer.  i used two large sweet potatoes for four to six servings of puree. be certain to cover the steamer and frequently check the pot for a boil over under the steamer.

when done, transfer to a bowl and mix with an electric mixer.  slowly add about one teaspoon of orange zest, either grated or dried, 1/2 cup or more of orange juice, and salt and pepper to taste.  i used blood orange juice.

next, add margarine and half and half, a tablespoon or two at a time to make a creamy puree of the sweet potatoes.  at first, the potatoes will be stringy and of a thicker consistency.  keep adding ingredients to suit your taste and desire for appearance. serve hot and enjoy.