Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Goji Berries Recipe

Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Goji Berries

Serves 4

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a traditional addition to soups and stews. They’re nicknamed “happy berries” because of the sense of well-being they induce, according to Chinese medicine. When plumped in hot water and stirred into this dish, goji berries have a taste and texture similar to raisins.

1 cup walnuts
3 Tbs. sugar
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced (about 1 lb.)
¼ cup goji berries or raisins
2 Tbs. roasted sesame or canola oil
2 Tbs. maple syrup
1 Tbs. fresh ginger, minced

Toast walnuts in skillet over medium-high heat 5 minutes, or until fragrant. Transfer to cutting board, and chop. Add sugar and 2 Tbs. water to skillet. Cook over medium-high heat 1 minute; add walnuts, and cook 5 minutes, or until sugar sticks to walnuts and walnuts are golden brown, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and cool.
Cook sweet potatoes in boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until soft. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking water. Transfer to bowl, and mash with reserved liquid. Season with salt and pepper.
Place goji berries in small bowl, and cover with hot water. Let stand 5 minutes to plump. Drain liquid.
Heat oil with maple syrup and ginger in small skillet over medium low 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add to potatoes, and fold in goji berries. Season with salt and pepper. Serve sprinkled with walnuts.

February 2007