Maple Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• sweet potatoes↗4 lbs

  peeled, cut into 1-1/2-inch chunks, 5-6 sweet potatoes

• bacon↗6

  slices

• half-and-half↗1⁄2 cup
• maple syrup↗1⁄3 cup
• butter↗1⁄3 cup

  at room temperature

• salt↗1 1⁄4 teaspoons
• ground cumin↗3⁄4 teaspoon
• pepper↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• chives1⁄3 cup

  chopped fresh

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In pot combine sweet potatoes with enough salted water to cover. Over high heat bring to boil. Cook until tender, 10 minutes. Drain; return to pot.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, in nonstick skillet over medium-hig heat cook bacon until crisp, 6-8 minutes; drain on paper towels. Crumble.

3. 3

   In microwave-safe bowl combine half-and-half and maple syrup; microwave on High until warm, 1-2 minutes.

4. 4

   Mash sweet potatoes with butter until smooth. Gradually mash in maple mixture.

5. 5

   Stir in salt, cumin and pepper. Reserve 1/4 cup bacon and 1 t. chives. Stir remaining bacon and chives into potatoes. Transfer to dish; top w ith bacon and chives.