Ugandan Sweet Potato Taffy

Ingredients

Ugandan Sweet Potato Taffy differs from the original American Saltwater Taffy by incorporating sweet potatoes as the main ingredient. Additionally, it incorporates Ugandan spices to infuse a savory undertone into the taffy. These adaptations give the taffy a distinct flavor profile that reflects the culinary traditions of Uganda. We alse have the original recipe for Saltwater Taffy, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) mashed sweet potatoes 2 cups (400g) mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for greasing Vegetable oil, for greasing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 18g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, water, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. 2.
   Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
3. 3.
   Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches a temperature of 250°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes until it is safe to handle.
5. 5.
   Grease a baking sheet or a flat surface with vegetable oil.
6. 6.
   Pour the taffy mixture onto the greased surface and let it cool slightly until it is comfortable to touch.
7. 7.
   Grease your hands with vegetable oil and begin pulling the taffy, stretching it out and folding it back onto itself repeatedly until it becomes lighter in color and firmer in texture.
8. 8.
   Once the taffy has reached the desired consistency, pull it into long ropes and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
9. 9.
   Wrap each piece of taffy in wax paper or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to use cooked and mashed sweet potatoes without any added seasoning or sweeteners for the best results.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a crunchy texture, you can roll the taffy in finely chopped peanuts or toasted coconut before wrapping.
• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the taffy mixture.
• If the taffy becomes too sticky to handle, lightly grease your hands with vegetable oil.
• Store the wrapped taffy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Experiment with different spices and flavorings to create your own unique variations of Ugandan Sweet Potato Taffy.

Serving advice

Serve the Ugandan Sweet Potato Taffy as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. It pairs well with a cup of Ugandan tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the individually wrapped taffy pieces in a decorative bowl or on a serving platter. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.