Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr.

Makes 8 servings.

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 lb large sweet potatoes, peeled and halved crosswise
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 stick unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup bourbon

    DIRECTIONS

    Preheat oven to 375°F.


    Cut each potato half lengthwise into fourths. Steam potatoes on a steamer rack set over boiling water, covered, until just tender, 10 to 15 minutes, then cool, uncovered. Transfer to a buttered 3-quart shallow baking dish.


    Simmer brown sugar, butter, water, and salt, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and syrup is thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in bourbon to taste. Drizzle syrup over potatoes and bake in middle of oven, basting occasionally, until syrup is thickened, about 1 1/4 hours.

    Cooks’ note:
    • Sweet potatoes may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Reheat before serving.