Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

The sweet potato pie is a must in African-American cuisine, often served during the holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and family meetings. Its roots date back to the culinary traditions of the West African, where the yams and other tubers were at the heart of the diet. Africans reduced to slavery brought their knowledge of cooking these ingredients to the Americas, where sweet potatoes have become a substitute for yams. Over time, the soft potato pie has become a beloved dessert which symbolizes comfort, inheritance and celebration.

This recipe remains faithful to classic flavors while offering advice to make yours. Let’s start!

Ingredients

For tart filling:

• 2 mash cups of sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unical, melted butter
• 1 cup of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup of evaporated milk (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

For the pie crust:

• 1 9 -inch unclear pie crust (house or purchased house)

Optional fillings:

• Whipped cream
• Marshmallow
• Pecan halves
• A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Step by step instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sweet potatoes

1. Choose the good sweet potatoes: Look for soft potatoes of medium size with smooth and spotless skin. The varieties with orange flesh like Beauregard or Jewel are ideal for their natural sweetness and their vibrant color.Cook the sweet potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into pieces. Place the pieces in a saucepan of water and boil until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Alternatively, you can cook them in 400 ° F (200 ° C) for 45 to 60 minutes or microwaves for 8 to 10 minutes until they are soft. Cooking or roasting improve their natural sweetness.
2. Crush the sweet potatoes: Drain the water (so boiling) and crush the sweet potatoes until smooth consistency. Measure 2 cups of sweet potatoes puree and let them cool slightly. Avoid over-lunch because it can make the garnish too dense.

Step 2: Filling

1. Preheat the oven: Adjust your oven to 350 ° F (175 ° C) to make sure it is ready when you are.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl to mix, mix the mash with sweet potatoes and melted butter. Mix until the butter is completely incorporated.
3. Add sugar and spices: Gradually add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt. Mix well to make sure that the spices are distributed uniformly.
4. Incorporate eggs and milk: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the soft potato mixture. Pour the evaporated milk and vanilla extract. Stir until the garnish is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spices if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the pie crust

1. Choose your crust: You can use a pie crust purchased in stores for more convenience or create yours from zero. A homemade crust adds a personal touch and can be made with flour, butter, salt and ice water.
2. Unroll the dough: If you use the homemade dough, move it to a floured surface until it measures about 1/8 thick thick. Sofaly transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it in the edges.
3. Crimp the edges: Use your fingers or a fork to tighten the edges of the crust for a decorative finish. It also helps prevent the crust from shrinking during cooking.

Step 4: Assemble and cook the pie

1. Pour the garnish: Carefully pour the soft potato filling into the unclear pie crust, distributing it evenly with a spatula.
2. Cook the pie: Place the pie on the middle of the preheated oven rack. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the garnish is adjusted and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The crust must be golden brown.
3. Prevent the sur-brun: If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield.

Step 5: Cool and serve

1. Let it cool: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a rack (at least 2 hours). This allows the garnish to adjust and facilitates the cutting.
2. Add garnishes (optional): Before serving, add a spoonful of whipped cream, a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of pacan for more flair. The marshmallow garnish can be grilled slightly with a kitchen torch for a fun touch.
3. Slice and enjoy: Use a sharp knife to cut the pie into unique slices. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Advice for perfect sweet potato pie

• Roast for an additional flavor: The roasting of sweet potatoes instead of boiling them intensifies their natural sweetness and adds depth to the pie.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. For a richer flavor, use the brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• Spice variations: Do not hesitate to experiment with spices. A pinch of cloves or pipe nails can add heat and complexity.
• Makeup option: You can prepare the filling one day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Pour it into the crust just before cooking.

Why this pie is special

Sweet potato pie is more than a simple dessert – it is a symbol of resilience, creativity and tradition. For many black families, it is a way of honoring the ancestors and passing the culinary heritage. The creamy texture, hot spices and butter crust make it a comforting treat that brings people together.

This black potato pie recipe is a celebration of flavor and culture. Whether you do it for a holiday party or a simple family dinner, it will certainly be a success. Follow the steps, add your personal touch and take advantage of the process of creating a dessert as significant as it is delicious. Good cooking!