Ingredients

4 pounds sweet potatoes

Salt

1 1/2 cups turkey or chicken stock

1/3 cup maple syrup

1 large fresh bay leaf

1 cinnamon stick

3 to 4 cloves

Juice of 1 orange plus a few strips of rind

4 tablespoons butter

Several sprigs thyme

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

Juice of 1 orange

Optional garnishes: chopped candied pecans, chopped smoky bacon, chives

Preparation

Place potatoes in a pot of cold water and bring to a boil. Salt water and cook potatoes until tender. Drain and return to hot pot. Meanwhile, place stock, syrup, bay, cinnamon, cloves, orange juice and rind, butter, thyme and peppercorns in a small pot over medium low heat Strain the stock and syrup into the sweet potatoes and mash. Adjust seasoning and serve with toppings candied nuts, bacon, and/or chives.