Nigerian-style Sweet Potato Gratin

Ingredients

This Nigerian-style Sweet Potato Gratin differs from the original Italian Gratin polesano in terms of flavor profile and spices used. While the Italian version typically features potatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese, the Nigerian adaptation incorporates sweet potatoes and a blend of Nigerian spices such as ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper. The Nigerian-style gratin also adds a touch of heat and a unique twist to the traditional dish. We alse have the original recipe for Gratin polesano, so you can check it out.

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (800g) 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (800g)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (5g) 1 teaspoon grated ginger (5g)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (5g) 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (5g)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (2g) 1 teaspoon dried thyme (2g)
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) (100g) 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) (100g)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the skillet and toss them with the onion and spice mixture until well coated.
5. 5.
   Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the sweet potatoes, covering them completely.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier gratin or reduce it for a milder flavor.
• Grated cheese — Feel free to use your preferred type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for the gratin topping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can mix in a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk with the sweet potato mixture before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination of flavors.
• Serve the gratin as a main dish with a side of fresh salad or as a delicious side dish to accompany roasted meats or grilled fish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerian-style Sweet Potato Gratin hot, straight from the oven, as the cheese will be perfectly melted and the sweet potatoes tender. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can sprinkle some extra grated cheese and a pinch of cayenne pepper on top of the gratin before baking. This will create an attractive golden crust that will entice your guests.