Doce de Batata Doce com Coco
A simple yet delightful Cape Verdean dessert featuring sweet potatoes simmered in a rich coconut milk and caramel sauce. This dish is tropical, comforting, and showcases the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Sweet potatoes(about 2-3 medium, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces)
- 1.5 cup Sugar
- 13.5 oz can Coconut milk(full-fat, about 1 3/4 cups)
- 0.25 cup Water(for caramel)
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Toasted coconut flakes(for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Steam them until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
💡 Tip: Steaming preserves more nutrients than boiling. - 2
While the sweet potatoes are steaming, prepare the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 3
Increase the heat to medium and cook without stirring, allowing the sugar mixture to turn a deep amber color. This will take about 5-10 minutes. Watch carefully as it can burn quickly.
💡 Tip: Swirl the pan gently if needed for even coloring, but avoid stirring. - 4
Once the caramel reaches the desired color, carefully and slowly pour in the coconut milk. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir until the caramel is fully incorporated into the coconut milk.
- 5
Add the salt and vanilla extract to the sauce. Simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 6
Gently add the steamed sweet potatoes to the thickened coconut caramel sauce. Stir to coat the sweet potatoes evenly.
💡 Tip: Be gentle to avoid breaking the sweet potato pieces. - 7
Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 8
Serve warm, garnished with toasted coconut flakes if desired.
💡 Tip: This dessert is delicious on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the sweet potatoes are cooked until just tender, not mushy.
- ✓The caramel sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- ✓If the caramel sauce becomes too thick upon reheating, add a tablespoon or two of water or coconut milk to thin it out.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sauce for extra warmth.
- Substitute taro or plantains for sweet potatoes.
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of coconut milk and heavy cream.